Nike and Undefeated unveiled their latest collaborative project dubbed "The Fives" earlier this week, paying homage to this year’s FIFA World Cup tournament. However, the collab has come under fire because the logo looks identical to the United State Naval Academy crest.
The Nike x Undefeated logo features banners that include phrases such as “Respect All” and “Fear None” with a Nike-branded cup at the top of the crest. "The Fives" logo has since caught the attention of the Naval Academy, who has advised The Swoosh to cease and desist their use of the image.
The U.S. Naval Academy released the following statement regarding the Nike x Undefeated "The Fives" logo:
"We’ve seen a lot of discussion re: our USNA Seal this week...The USNA crest represents honor, integrity and leadership,and is emblematic of our students and more than 80k alumni who serve and have served our country, many of whom made the ultimate sacrifice in its defense. It is difficult to understand why anyone would modify and use our symbol without permission for marketing and profit motives."
"The similarities of the Nike/UNDEFEATED logo released this week and the USNA Crest are undeniable and we believe their logo is clearly an infringement under trademark law. USNA is working with Navy leadership to order Nike/UNDEFEATED to cease and desist their use of the logo."
Nike x Undefeated “The Fives” sportswear collection is scheduled to make its debut on Saturday, June 16, but it remains to be seen if they'll be moving forward as planned amid the controversy.