Cole Palmer Trademarks Iconic Cold Goal Celebration
Cole Palmer’s ‘cold’ celebration has rapidly become a symbol of his rise at Chelsea and among England fans. Now, Palmer has taken a major commercial step by officially trademarking his signature shivering gesture, a move that cements both his personal brand and entrepreneurial ambition—even as he openly admits the idea was inspired by Aston Villa’s Morgan Rogers.
Cole Palmer’s ‘Cold’ Goal Celebration: From Pitch to Trademark
Cole Palmer’s trademark application for his now-famous ‘cold’ goal celebration has been approved by the United Kingdom Intellectual Property Office. This legal protection covers commercial uses of the gesture—think merchandise, endorsements, and marketing—while still allowing footballers to mimic the move on the pitch.
The Chelsea star previously trademarked his ‘Cold’ nickname, demonstrating a clear intent to consolidate his image rights and maximize their commercial value. This move has become a growing trend among elite players, mirroring how Cristiano Ronaldo secured rights to his ‘Siuuuu’ celebration and Kylian Mbappe protected his iconic arms-crossed pose.
Why Palmer’s Trademark Is More Than Just Business
Paul Jordan, co-head of trademarks at Bristows LLP, explained that Palmer’s trademarking effort signals keen awareness about intellectual property and its importance in modern football. By assembling a portfolio of registered rights, Palmer not only strengthens his marketability but also sends a message to sponsors that he takes his brand seriously.
While the trademark won’t prevent other players from celebrating in the same style during matches, it does mean that commercial ventures hoping to use the gesture will need Palmer’s permission.
Origins of the ‘Cold’ Celebration: Inspiration and Controversy
Interestingly, Palmer acknowledges he borrowed the celebration from former Manchester City teammate Morgan Rogers, now at Aston Villa. Palmer detailed, “I first did the ‘cold’ celebration last December in a game against Luton. It’s a nod to my former City academy teammate Morgan Rogers. It represents joy, passion, and determination, and it’s funny because it fits my name.”
Rogers, for his part, has good-naturedly claimed, “He definitely copied me. Check the timeline—I did it first. He’s one of my closest friends. I couldn’t be more proud of him.” The debate on who originated the celebration has even drawn in other players, such as Valencia’s Diego Lopez, who insists he performed the gesture years before Palmer or Rogers.
Trademarking Goal Celebrations: A Growing Football Trend
Palmer isn’t alone in recognizing the value of a signature celebration. Cristiano Ronaldo’s ‘Siuuuu’, Kylian Mbappe’s arms-crossed gesture, Gareth Bale’s ‘Eleven of Hearts’, and Erling Haaland’s yoga pose have all been trademarked to protect their commercial uses. These moves are as much about business as they are about personal legacy, ensuring players can profit from their unique identities off the pitch.
Palmer’s Commercial Vision and the Business of Football Branding
By trademarking his ‘cold’ celebration, Palmer aligns himself with the modern footballer’s dual focus on performance and brand-building. In a competitive marketplace, having a legally protected, easily recognizable image sets players apart for endorsements and sponsorships. Palmer’s advisors are clearly building a robust portfolio that could pay dividends throughout his career and beyond.
When Will Palmer Return? Fans Await the Next ‘Cold’ Moment
Palmer’s celebration has been absent from the pitch in recent weeks due to a groin injury suffered in September. However, positive news for the Chelsea faithful: Palmer is expected to return to action following the international break, with hopes he’ll be available for key fixtures against Barcelona in the Champions League and Arsenal in the Premier League. His comeback is eagerly anticipated, with supporters looking forward to seeing the ‘cold’ celebration back where it belongs.
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Opinion: Palmer’s Trademark Move Shows Football’s Changing Landscape
Cole Palmer’s decision to trademark his celebration highlights how top footballers are increasingly savvy about their business interests. While some fans might see the move as overly commercial, it actually reflects the modern game’s realities—where image rights, personal branding, and commercial deals shape careers just as much as goals scored. Palmer’s openness about drawing inspiration from friends like Morgan Rogers shows there’s still humility and camaraderie in the game, even as players work to protect what makes them unique.
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