Las Vegas Grand Prix Sues Shops Over Alleged Sale of Fake Merchandise

Formula 1 Takes Legal Action Against Shops Selling Counterfeit Las Vegas GP Merchandise

The organizers of the Las Vegas Grand Prix have filed a lawsuit against two retailers, Bonanza Gift Shop and Crazy Ely, accusing them of selling counterfeit products related to the event. The alleged violations date back to the year 2023.

Claims Center on Trademark Infringement and Counterfeiting

The lawsuit accuses the shops of multiple legal violations, including trademark infringement, unfair competition, and producing counterfeit goods. These claims carry serious consequences for the implicated businesses if proven true.

Investigation and Seizure of Fake Items

Formula 1 conducted its own investigation, during which agents inspected the merchandise offered by both stores. Authorities confiscated 69 counterfeit Formula 1 items from Crazy Ely in 2023. However, when investigators arrived at Bonanza Gift Shop, no counterfeit merchandise was found. It is suspected that this removal was deliberate and pre-arranged.

Alleged Pre-emptive Removal of Counterfeit Goods

Bonanza Gift Shop reportedly cleared out its fake merchandise after being tipped off by Crazy Ely about the investigators’ pending visit. Despite this, the scope of the counterfeit operation appears extensive, with an estimated 2,300 fake items sold by these two entities between June and November 2023.

Wholesaler Named in Lawsuit

The complaint also implicates E&B Wholesalers as the alleged manufacturer of these counterfeit products. Due to significant harm to Formula 1’s brand and reputation, the lawsuit seeks damages amounting to $1 million.