US Olympic Committee Sues Prime Energy Drinks Over Trademark Infringement

The US Olympic and Paralympic Committee (USOPC) has filed a lawsuit against Logan Paul and KSI’s Prime energy drinks brand, alleging trademark infringement. The committee claims Prime has used trademarked Olympic phrases and symbols on a special edition hydration drink featuring basketball star and three-time Olympic gold medallist Kevin Durant.

The USOPC contends that Prime does not have permission to use its terminology and trademarks, and accuses the brand of acting “deliberately” and “in bad faith.” The lawsuit was filed in Colorado on Friday and includes accusations that Prime used the trademarks in internet campaigns and promotions. The committee previously issued a cease and desist letter to Prime, but the brand reportedly continued to market the product using the Olympic branding.

Prime has faced criticism for marketing to a younger audience, leading some UK schools to issue warnings or ban the product. While Prime’s energy drink contains caffeine, the company also sells a caffeine-free hydration drink. Earlier this month, US Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer called for an investigation into Prime due to the high caffeine content of its energy drink. In response, Prime stated that it complies with regulatory requirements in the countries where it operates.

Prime, founded by YouTube stars Logan Paul and KSI, who have over 40 million followers combined, was launched in the UK with significant hype in 2022. The brand has collaborated with major sports stars and teams, including Arsenal and the LA Dodgers, leading some shops to limit the number of bottles sold per customer.