“Cold Palmer” Trademark Dream Shattered as Chelsea Star Loses Battle to Bordeaux Giants
In a dramatic setback for one of English football’s brightest young names, Cole Palmer has officially lost his fight to trademark the nickname “Cold Palmer” after the UK’s Intellectual Property Office ruled in favor of French wine estate Château Palmer. The verdict, handed down on September 24, 2025, ends nearly a year of wrangling between the 23-year-old Chelsea midfielder and the 200-year-old Bordeaux vineyard famed for its £750-a-bottle Claret.
Palmer, whose “freezing” celebration has become an internet sensation, was left “stunned and disappointed,” according to those close to him. The defeat effectively blocks his bid to build a global merchandise empire under the “Cold Palmer” brand.
From Shiver to Showdown
The saga began in late 2023 when Palmer filed to trademark the phrase across a wide range of commercial categories—from alcoholic beverages and cosmetics to clothing, toys, diet drinks, and even vehicles. Documents showed grand ambitions: branded hoodies, grooming products, recovery drinks, and more. “It’s about owning my story—from the pitch to the shelf,” a source from Palmer’s camp had explained earlier this year.
But Château Palmer, founded in 1814 and considered one of Bordeaux’s elite Third Growths, swiftly objected. The French estate argued that the footballer’s mark risked confusing consumers—especially in alcohol sales—while undermining its centuries-old reputation. “Our name represents a legacy of vinicultural excellence,” a spokesperson wrote. “Blurring that with football slogans poses an unacceptable risk.”
The Verdict
After months of hearings, the IPO agreed with the vineyard. In a 45-page ruling, examiners concluded the names were too similar and likely to mislead buyers in alcohol-related markets. While Palmer won limited approval for certain categories like clothing and toys, his central alcohol-related applications—the cornerstone of his brand—were rejected outright.
“This is a heavy blow,” said Karen Lee, a trademark specialist at Edwin Coe LLP. “Heritage brands like Château Palmer hold immense weight in opposition proceedings. For a player trying to follow the path of Ronaldo or Kane, this was always going to be an uphill climb.”
Fallout in Football Circles
The ruling hit Palmer hard. The Manchester-born playmaker, who has scored 25 goals in 50 Chelsea appearances since his £40m switch from Manchester City, was said to be “gutted” at Cobham training. Teammates rallied: Enzo Fernández posted “❄️🔥 keep pushing brother” on Instagram, while Noni Madueke joked on X, “Cold Palmer denied? Time for Hot Palmer energy drinks 😂 #CFC.”
Fans are split. On Reddit, one lamented, “£750 wine vs. £10 socks? Let the lad trademark it.” Another quipped, “David vs Goliath—only Goliath’s got Bordeaux lawyers.” Suggestions for rebrands—like “Ice Palmer” or “Frosty CP”—are already making the rounds.
Bigger Picture
For Palmer, the loss highlights the risks of athlete branding in an era where names can become commercial empires. Cristiano Ronaldo’s CR7 empire generates millions, while Harry Kane’s trademarks cover everything from beer to bicycles. Palmer hoped to join that tier; instead, he’s been reminded that fame doesn’t override legacy trademarks.
“Trademarks are about avoiding dilution, not just about who’s famous,” explained IP attorney James Manship. “Palmer is young—he has time to rethink his brand identity.”
What’s Next?
Palmer’s camp has 28 days to appeal, though insiders suggest escalating legal fees could halt the fight. Instead, he may pivot—focusing on non-alcoholic lines or collaborating with brands like Nike or Red Bull that avoid conflict with the vineyard. Rumors already hint at a “Cold Palmer” pop-up line stripped of any booze references.
For now, the shiver that made him famous has met an icy reality in the courtroom. But if Palmer’s resilience on the pitch is anything to go by, Chelsea’s “Cold One” might yet rebrand—and find a way to keep his cool.
