NCAA files lawsuit against DraftKings for March Madness trademark infringement

The NCAA has filed a federal lawsuit against DraftKings, seeking an emergency restraining order to halt the sportsbook’s use of trademarks associated with the NCAA’s men’s and women’s basketball tournaments. The suit, filed in the Southern District of Indiana, alleges trademark infringement related to terms like “March Madness,” “Final Four,” “Elite Eight,” and “Sweet Sixteen.” The NCAA claims DraftKings deliberately used these marks to capitalize on the tournaments’ popularity and create a false association with the NCAA.

DraftKings disputes the claims, arguing its use of “March Madness” is descriptive and constitutes fair use protected under the First Amendment, similar to how other tournaments are identified. They state they use the term in plain text to accurately identify the tournaments and their games.

The NCAA maintains a strong stance against affiliation with gambling companies, having declined sponsorships and implemented policies to prevent sports betting by athletes and staff. They argue that DraftKings’ use of the trademarks falsely suggests NCAA endorsement, potentially exposing vulnerable audiences, particularly college students, to gambling harm.

(Source：The Independent)