Al-Ettifaq files formal trademark objection against Al-Ittihad over ‘Etti ITTI’

Al-Ettifaq have lodged a formal complaint with the Saudi Authority for Intellectual Property, objecting to Al-Ittihad’s registration of the trademark “Etti ITTI”.

The objection is based on Al-Ettifaq’s claim that it has used the name “Etti” for several years and that the term has become closely associated with the club’s identity and supporters.

According to Saudi newspaper Al-Riyadiyah, Al-Ettifaq’s management submitted evidence documenting the use of the name in supporters’ chants, as well as in products and media materials linked to the club over recent years.

The club is concerned that Al-Ittihad’s registration of the trademark could affect its ability to use “Etti” in the future. That could include its products, commercial activities and media work.

Al-Ettifaq have therefore taken formal action to protect the club’s rights to the name and to establish its previous use of the term.

Sources said the club included a collection of documents and other supporting material dating back several years with its objection. The material is intended to demonstrate that Al-Ettifaq used the name before Al-Ittihad and to underline the connection between the term, the club and its fanbase.

The case will now be considered by the Saudi Authority for Intellectual Property, with Al-Ettifaq awaiting a decision after the authority reviews the documents and evidence submitted by the club.

Al-Ittihad announced the launch of its “Etti ITTI” trademark in July as part of a strategy to develop its brand and strengthen its presence. The club also said the initiative would help diversify its income streams and support its commercial and investment growth.

Al-Ettifaq’s complaint comes as the club seeks to preserve its rights over the name while the formal process with the Saudi Authority for Intellectual Property continues.