Aviator, Flutter Partner Amid Legal Dispute Settlement
The Key Points at a Glance
A legal dispute between Aviator LLC and Flutter Entertainment has been resolved. The conflict centered around trademark and copyright infringements related to the popular Aviator crash game. Both companies have agreed on a long-term partnership, enabling the global distribution of Aviator games through Flutter’s platforms. Despite the settlement, Aviator LLC remains involved in further legal disputes with other parties.
Background of the Legal Dispute
Aviator LLC, a company led by Teimuraz Ugulava, the former operator of Adjarabet, accused Flutter of offering the Aviator crash game without authorization. This accusation led to a lawsuit in the Georgian First Instance Court. In August 2023, the court ruled that Flutter must pay damages amounting to 330 million euros (approximately 342.5 million USD). However, industry experts deemed this sum excessive, as it could exceed the financial scope of the gambling sector.
The Settlement and Its Implications
With the settlement now reached, Flutter has recognized the trademark rights of Aviator LLC as well as the distinctive airplane symbol. The two companies have agreed on a long-term collaboration. This includes the integration of Aviator LLC’s games or those of its partner companies on Flutter’s platforms worldwide. The financial details of the agreement remain confidential.
Nikoloz Gogilidze, the legal representative of Aviator LLC, confirmed the settlement and emphasized the importance of the new partnership. The collaboration is expected to significantly expand the global reach of Aviator games and open new opportunities for both companies.
Further Legal Challenges
Despite the settlement with Flutter, Aviator LLC remains involved in legal disputes. In particular, the company is pursuing action against Spribe, the developer of the Aviator crash game. Aviator LLC accuses Spribe of unlawfully using protected trademark images. Lawsuits have been filed with the European Union Intellectual Property Office (EUIPO) and the UK High Court, among others. Gogilidze stated that Aviator LLC is determined to pursue these cases and announced forthcoming updates on the proceedings.
Our Assessment
The settlement between Aviator LLC and Flutter highlights the importance of clear trademark rights in the gambling industry. The collaboration could bring economic benefits to both companies, particularly through the global distribution of Aviator games. At the same time, it remains to be seen how Aviator LLC’s further legal actions against Spribe will unfold. For players and industry observers, the situation remains intriguing, as the outcome of these disputes could influence the future of the Aviator crash game and similar products.
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