Galacticos case against bookmakers dismissed by ladbrokes

A French judge in the Paris Courts has thrown out a case brought by representatives of Real Madrid's Galacticos to prevent bookmakers from using players' names and images on betting websites.

In seeking an injunction, Real Madrid claimed that the use of its club name, players' names and photographs on betting sites constituted a breach of their rights.

Leading bookmakers, who worked together in defending the case, argued that the use of the club name and listing of player's names in bets is merely factual reporting rather than for any promotional purpose. The Court agreed; the use of the club name and a player's name and/or his image was not linked to the promotion of betting.

Commenting on the result, Clive Hawkswood of the Assocation of Remote Gambling Operators, the organisation that represents leading online bookmakers, said:

"This unusual case has seen Real Madrid and the Galacticos pursue legal action merely for the use of club and players' names in betting markets such as first goalscorer bets. The litigants believed their best chance of success was in the French Courts - but we are not surprised the case has been thrown out. We hope this is the end of the matter."

Defendants in the case included Bookmark: