Washington Commanders obligated to maintain Redskins logo for trademark reasons

Yahoo Sports1 min read • Latest: Aug 25, 2026, 11:55 PM

Last updated Aug 25, 2026

Washington Commanders obligated to maintain Redskins logo for trademark reasons
Summary

The Washington Commanders, who previously changed their name from the 'Redskins' in 2020, have started selling merchandise featuring the old logo and name. This practice is reportedly mandated by trademark law, which requires the team to maintain commercial usage of the marks to prevent losing ownership. Investigative reporter Eric Flack unveiled that fans can still find items with the former identity at the team store. While some fans advocate for a return to the Redskins name, the franchise reiterates that it will not be returning to that moniker. The Commanders clarified that the old branding will only be used occasionally to honor former players.

Source Links
Status Watch
  • The team changed from the Redskins to Commanders in 2020.
  • Merchandise with the Redskins logo is being sold again.
  • Trademark laws require the franchise to use the old marks.
  • The team states it will not revert to the Redskins name.
  • Alternate logos will see limited use to honor past players.
Latest Updates
  • 11:55 PMYahoo SportsWashington legally required to maintain Redskins logo
What they're saying
"

The Washington Commanders were briefly known as the Washington Football Team after changing the franchise mascot from the “Redskins” in a move of respect for Native Americans and to help stop perpetuating racial stereotypes. However, some fans would like the “Redskins” moniker to return, and while the franchise hasn’t gone that far, it did bring…

Related Teams & Leagues

Sources

External links

Original reporting and copyright belong to the linked sources. SportsNewsReport.com aggregates and links — it does not republish full articles.

Related Stories

Last 14 days