Image rights: lessons from Messi’s case against Temu

By Erika Synowiec

Estudio fotográfico vacío con un banco bajo un foco: el derecho de imagen.

Using a person’s image or name to sell products without permission is not just a marketing strategy: it can create legal liability for unauthorized use.

The Messi v. Temu case reflects the growing importance of protecting image rights and how they are used in digital environments. I’m sharing this analysis from the firm because it highlights an increasingly common legal issue.

What happened

Lionel Messi took legal action against Temu for the unauthorized use of his image to promote and sell products.

Your image is an asset

This case highlights a fundamental reality: a person’s image is one of their most valuable assets, and no one can profit from it without their consent.

In the digital age, reach is massive, but so are the risks. That is why securing image rights with a solid legal strategy is the only way to protect them.

At Synowiec & Asociados we support public figures, labels and entertainment companies in protecting and defending their image rights, trademarks and reputation internationally.

Advice on this topic

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