Usain Bolt set to trademark his lightning victory pose

Track icon Usain Bolt is set to trademark his famous victory celebration pose, so he can use it on his own brand of sportswear, according to The Mirro of England.

Bolt, who turned 36 on Sunday, has filed an application with the US Patent and Trademark Office. It will safeguard the silhouette image of him pointing to the stars.

First called ‘To Di World’, it was quickly dubbed ‘Lightning Bolt’.
Bolt made it famous at the 2008 Olympics, where he won 100m, 200m and relay gold and set a 100m world record.

The logo could be used on his brand of jewellery, purses, sunglasses, shoes and sporting goods. It could also include restaurants, sports bars and services like VIP areas, catering and loyalty card schemes.

He did the pose for photographers and TV cameras as he conquered the sprint world. The popular Jamaican still holds the world records for the 100m and 200m, making him the fastest man in history.

Now a dad to twins Thunder and Saint Leo, his application covers: “The silhouette of a man in a distinctive pose, with one arm bent and pointing to the head, and the other arm raised and pointing upward”.

Josh Gerben, a Washington DC-based trademark lawyer, told the BBC : “Given that Bolt is now retired from racing, it makes sense that he would look to expand his business empire.

“The silhouette of his victory pose is recognised around the world. This trademark registration would enable him to offer the items listed in the application himself, or license the right to use the trademark to third parties.”

He applied to register a similar trademark 12 years ago, but this has since lapsed under US law. The “Jumpman” logo is owned by Nike to promote the Air Jordan brand of former player Michael Jordan.