Protecting Your Brand: Trade Mark Breaches in the Entertainment Industry, Featuring F1

Haas Files Lawsuit Against Steiner Over Alleged “Surviving to Drive” Copyright Violations

Have you been following the legal proceedings between Haas and ex-Formula 1 Team Principal Guenther Steiner? Recently, it was revealed that Steiner has initiated legal action against the American squad over alleged missing funds and unauthorised use of his image. However, the plot thickens as Haas Automation, the parent company of the F1 operation, fires back with claims of trade mark breaches in Steiner’s autobiography, “Surviving to Drive.”

Court documents filed in the Central District of California, West Division, outline Haas Automation’s grievances, alleging that Steiner unlawfully utilised the Haas Automation Trade marks and Trade Dress for personal gain without consent. Despite attempts to address the issue directly with Steiner, Haas received no response, leading to the initiation of legal proceedings.

Haas Automation asserts its entitlement to compensation for the revenue generated from Steiner’s book and has requested a trial by jury to resolve the matter. Despite prior notice, Steiner has taken no action to cease his infringing activities, prompting the lawsuit.

The scope of Steiner’s alleged trademark breaches extends across various mediums, including print and digital, infringing upon Haas Automation’s exclusive intellectual property rights. Online data suggests that Steiner’s book has sold over 150,000 units and generated revenue exceeding $4,500,000 as of January 2024.

Steiner’s tenure at Haas, spanning from the team’s inception in 2016 until his departure amid its championship struggles, underscores the complexity of intellectual property rights in the entertainment industry. As a business owner or creative professional, safeguarding your brand against unauthorised use is paramount.

At Start.Biz, we understand the importance of protecting your intellectual property. Our expertise can help you navigate the intricacies of intellectual property law.

Don’t let unauthorised usage jeopardise your brand’s integrity. Take proactive steps to safeguard your intellectual property and preserve the value of your creative assets.

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If you want more information about how to protect your business name in the UK, contact the Start.Biz team by emailing Info@Start.Biz or by calling 0800 069 9090.

Looking for IP or Trade Mark Protection?

If you wish to gain exclusive rights to your business name, logo, tag line or design within the UK or globally, our parent company, National Business Register Group (NBR) has been assisting businesses in protecting their brand since 1984. Contact NBR on Info@nbrg.co.uk or by calling 0800 069 9090.