Old defunct sports team. What is my exposure?

[FreshAvails.com]

I have registered a sports team name .com that has moved and then later changed it's name. Starting about 25-30 years ago. i.e. Houston Oilers = Tennesee Titans.

What is my exposure? I have checked the TM office and see an Active TM for the logo.

Thoughts? Thanks

 

[DNQuest.com]

Defunct sports teams TMs may still be owned by the league. Putting up a non-commercial site aobut teh team could help you a bit.

 

[AdoptableDomains]

Fact - your site is infringing on a TM, whether defunct or not. Someone may still own the name in hopes of bringing the team back. Remember when Cleveland lost the Browns?

You may have some chance of good faith use as a fan site, trivia site, or historical site, but would have to put up a strong case if the TM owner wanted it.

 

[DNQuest.com]

Fact - your site is infringing on a TM, whether defunct or not. Someone may still own the name in hopes of bringing the team back. Remember when Cleveland lost the Browns?

A better example would be the Canton Bulldogs. The NFL relinguished the rights of the Browns to the city of Cleveland, so when they moved, the rights were still intact. So Cleveland never lost the Browns, they just didn't have a team for several years. (former Browns season ticket holder).

 

[CyberLaw.pro]

One thing to consider: the NFL is known to be pretty aggressive in protecting their rights. It doesn't necessarily mean that they will automatically pursue it, but, if nothing else, there is some common law right in the name. That's a consideration.

 

[FreshAvails.com]

I'm pretty confident that I am in violation so i will try and keep it loose and somewhat under the radar. Nothing to agressive with it. It is not the NFL but one of the other of the big three so it is well defended. Might have to just let it expire. Too Bad, it gets some nice traffic. Thanks for your advice folks. Rep+ added to you all.