NFL stars Travis Kelce and Patrick Mahomes are being sued for copyright infringement by sneaker company 1587 Sneakers, according to an ESPN report citing court filings. The lawsuit alleges the name of the athletes' Kansas City steakhouse, 1587 Prime, infringes on the sneaker brand's use of the same number combination.
The sneaker company, founded by Adam King and Sam Hyun, claims it began selling shoes in April 2023, before the restaurant's plans were announced. The company's name is inspired by the year 1587, marking the first recorded Asian presence in America. Kelce and Mahomes' restaurant name derives from their jersey numbers, 15 and 87.
Trademark attorney Josh Gerben, not involved in the case, told ESPN it presents a challenge as trademarks can coexist in different industries like clothing and restaurants. The sneaker company argues consumer confusion is occurring and is seeking to stop the restaurant from using "1587 Prime" and selling related merchandise, while also requesting unspecified damages.
The suit claims the high-profile restaurant has caused irreparable damage to the smaller brand. 1587 Sneakers stated it hopes to resolve the matter amicably but is pursuing legal action to protect its brand identity.