IPL | RCB sues Uber for infringing trademark in viral Travis Head advertisement

Royal Challengers Bengaluru took Uber to court on Thursay over trademark infringement claims after the America-based company released an advertisement featuring the star sponsor of their sponsored team Sunrisers Hyderabad. The former claim that by using the phrase "Royally Challenged Bengaluru," Uber have trespassed their trademark over the brand name but the Delhi High Court is yet to pass judgement on the matter.

Uber had published the video in question on their social media platforms on April 4 with the title Hyderabaddie and Head on the thumbnail, which has since garnered well over a million views. The company had first teased the concept at the start of the month but released the full version of the video three days later showcasing Travis Head breaking into a stadium with an affiliate, where the duo combine to vandalize the "Bengaluru vs Hyderabad" banner by spray painting the words "Royally Challenged" ahead of Bengaluru. Uber has since featured Head in several videos, all of which see him wearing glistening and chunky gold jewellery, including a locket with the word "Baddie".  

RCB's advocate Shwetasree Majumder claimed the phrase was too pointed to be a co-incidence, especially since it features a former player of theirs. However, Uber maintained that the usage is covered under "commercial free speech" and mocked the team for their lacking sense of humour.

”I am reserving order. I will pass the order and will dispose of the application,” the Court said after hearing both sides.

RCB play the Sunrisers only once in the league stages of the 2025 season, on May 13 at the Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru.