The European Football Championship and the Olympics in Paris were approaching, and the European Union Intellectual Property Office (EUIPO) launched a campaign to encourage fans to watch official broadcasts and purchase authentic sports equipment. A study conducted by the EU agency revealed that millions of Europeans engage in watching illegal sports broadcasts and buying counterfeit sports gear, with young people aged 15 to 24 being particularly guilty.
It was found that 12% of EU citizens access sports content from illegal sources, with an even higher percentage among the 15 to 24 age group. Illegal internet streaming is widespread in countries like Croatia, Bulgaria, Spain, Greece, Slovenia, and Ireland. The EUIPO estimates that piracy generates approximately one billion euros in illegal income annually, affecting the financial stability of the sports industry.
The study also showed that streaming is identified as the most common method for accessing illegal TV content in the EU, accounting for 58% of piracy, while downloading contributes to 32%. Beyond sports broadcasts, counterfeit sports equipment also inflicts financial losses on the EU, with losses amounting to 850 million euros annually, primarily from counterfeit clothing like soccer shirts and sports shoes.
In response to this issue, Operation Fake Star was launched targeting counterfeit goods from popular brands across Europe. This operation resulted in the seizure of millions of counterfeit luxury and sports items worth an estimated retail value of 120 million euros. It led to the arrest of over 260 individuals associated with counterfeit activities.
The EUIPO Director João Negrão emphasized the importance of playing fair not only for athletes on the field but also for spectators at home. By supporting official broadcasts and licensed products, viewers contribute to the development of sports and uphold the integrity of intellectual property rights. He reminded us that piracy not only affects our wallets but also jeopardizes our ability to enjoy quality sporting events and support our favourite teams.
In conclusion, it’s essential for all individuals who enjoy watching or participating in sporting events to be aware of their actions when it comes to purchasing gear or streaming content online. By choosing legal options instead of resorting to illegal activities or purchasing fake goods, we can ensure a healthy future for both athletes and fans alike while promoting fairness in all aspects of life.
As we approach major sporting events such as European Championships or Olympic Games it’s important for all individuals who engage in these activities to understand their impact on intellectual property rights and choose legal options instead of purchasing fake goods or resorting
