Warwick Capper says he's 'Michael Jordan of Australia' after $300,000 Nando's lawsuit
AFL legend Warwick Capper is threatening to sue Nando’s for $300,000 after the fast food chain used his name without permission.
News Corp reports Nando’s has admitted fault and offered to pay the flamboyant Capper $10,000, but the 52-year-old is reportedly demanding $289,300.
Capper is upset his name and reference to his famous tight shorts was used in an advertising campaign to promote Nando’s 25th anniversary in 2015.
The ads have featured on radio and posters on 163 buses and trams.
“25 years ago ... Warwick Capper had the shortest shorts in footy. And Nando’s hatched Down Under,” the ads read.
Capper noted a similar case in the where basketball star Michael Jordan was involved in a $US8.9 million settlement with a supermarket chain that used his name without permission.
The former football star previously lent his name to a Nando’s campaign in 2009.
He felt his name and likeness was worth ‘at least $100 million’ and referred to himself as ‘the Michael Jordan of Australia’.
Fairfax Media reported Capper has engaged law firm Browne and Co and sought advice from the AFL Players Association.
Nando’s have confirmed the chain did not seek approval before running the ads and removed them when they became aware of the concerns.
Capper was also reportedly issued an apology.
“Nando’s agrees that Mr Capper should be paid, however we disagree with the level of payment that has been requested,” a spokesman said.
“Our offer to Mr Capper is still open and payment will be immediate upon receipt of an invoice from him.”
News break – April 19
