REAL MADRID and Barcelona will be banned from using the phrase “El Clasico” after a bizarre ruling.
The term is used for the match between Spain’s two most prestigious clubs.
GettyBarcelona and Real Madrid are in a legal battle with LaLiga[/caption]
However, neither side will be able to use it in their advertising campaigns from now on, claim outlet Revelo.
The clubs have reportedly lost a bid to patent the term as lawmakers say that the phrase “El Clasico” is too close to the LaLiga term “ElClasico”, which they own the right to.
Therefore it can’t be used by the teams, but the game will still be called it.
This prevents Real Madrid and Barca using “El Clasico” in their marketing strategies or in TV deals they aim to strike.
The bitter rivals are now set to join forces and appeal the decision.
If they are again rejected, chiefs could take the matter to an international court.
This is LaLiga’s latest battle with Barcelona regarding off the pitch activity after they slapped them with a transfer ban until they balance their books.
Speculation suggests that the Catalan giants need to raise £178million in player sales.
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The likes of Raphinha, Frenkie de Jong and Ansu Fati could all be sold this summer.
Barca have won the title this season and sit 11 points ahead of Real Madrid in second with two games to go.