When Banter Met Trademark: RCB v. Uber India

Introduction Sport rivalries thrive on humor, satire and banter, but what happens when that very satire is coupled with an advertisement by a global corporation, and wherein commercial gain is involved? And at what point therefore, does humor cross into trademark disparagement. This very question came before the Delhi High Court in May 2025, when the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) sought an injunction against an advertisement by Uber India, which as alleged, played on their name. Justice...