FIFA Threatens Cannabis Store with Legal Action

A cannabis store in Toronto, one of the host cities for the upcoming World Cup, was forced to destroy part of its themed merchandise following a complaint from FIFA, reports "The Athletic". The issue concerned the sale of a bong shaped like the World Cup trophy – a trademark of the football governing body – which was branded as the "FIFA Bong."

"Cosmic Charlie's," located on Queen Street, received a legal warning from FIFA's lawyers last Friday and proceeded to destroy the merchandise on Monday. The bong itself retailed for 50 Canadian dollars (36 US dollars), and only one unit had been sold to an anonymous buyer.

"Our clients have informed us that you are advertising, offering for sale, and/or selling products bearing FIFA's trademark," stated the message from Lipkus Law, the firm representing the football federation in Canada.

The letter came as a surprise to brothers Sean (38) and Charles Cady (34), owners of "Cosmic Charlie's." They explained that they had stocked the bongs to join in the World Cup festivities, with Canada co-hosting the tournament alongside the USA and Mexico. Matches are scheduled to take place in Toronto and Vancouver.

Canada was the first North American country to legalize the recreational use and sale of cannabis in retail stores. In the United States, consumption remains largely illegal, although 24 states have now legalized it. In Mexico, cannabis use is legal, but retail sales are not.

"That's why we decided we had an opportunity to present Canada as a leader in cannabis tourism. We thought this would be another way to bring football fans together," said Sean Cady, referring to the silicone bong he had to personally destroy.

"The price of one bong certainly can't buy me all the publicity I've received in such a short period. Honestly, I didn't expect to become so famous online from this venture. I'll never forget the day FIFA showed me a red card," Cady added.