Oakland Raiders file trademark applications for ‘Las Vegas Raiders’
A move is not yet on the horizon, but the Oakland Raiders have filed for trademarks attached to the Las Vegas Raiders name.
The Oakland Raiders’ current home is the only dual-purpose stadium in major American sports, complete with a dirt infield in existence for early season home games. Talk of a move to Las Vegas has been ongoing, and owner Mark Davis is clearly looking to make the move if a new stadium in the Oakland area is not possible.
There are some hurdles to clear before a move to Sin City is possible. But according to Forbes, the Raiders have filed trademark applications for the name “Las Vegas Raiders.” All of the filings, across various goods, services and mediums, were filed with an intent to use the mark in commerce at some point in the future.
Trademark applications do not guarantee a relocation. The San Diego Chargers filed trademark applications for ‘LA Chargers’, as they were considering a move to Los Angeles earlier this year. If that move eventually happens the Chargers have covered their bases, just as the Raiders are trying to do with the Las Vegas version of their team name.
It is worth noting Nevada Senator Harry Reid recently expressed support for a domed stadium that would house the Raiders. The plan is currently for such a facility is being reviewed by the Southern Nevada Tourism Infrastructure Committee.
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In terms of the necessary support from NFL owners, Davis and the Raiders have an influential person in their corner. Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones supported the Rams’ move back to Los Angeles, and he has publicly expressed similar support for the Raiders’ move to Las Vegas. The odds of getting the required approval from 24 of 32 owners are significantly improved with Jones backing it, assuming a vote on a move to Las Vegas eventually happens.
The NHL will be the first major sport to put a team in the Las Vegas market. The NFL may not be too far behind.