Reuters

Sportswear group adidas has had a setback in a row with rivals about whether athletes can wear outfits bearing its renowned three-striped logo at the forthcoming Winter Olympics.

Nike, Puma and Reebok have written to International Olympic Committee president Jacques Rogge saying adidas should no longer be the exception to the governing body's rule, which limits branding to a single, 20 square centimetre logo on outfits.

Adidas is allowed to use the three stripes on its clothing because they are considered to be a design element, not a logo, and rivals claim the company has benefited from the greater awareness of its prominent branding.

Chief executive Herbert Hainer confirmed adidas had been informed about the decision, but added in a conference call that footwear worn at the Olympics would not be affected.

An adidas spokeswoman said it was seeking further talks with the IOC on the issue before the Games begin in Turin next year.

The move comes only weeks after Puma took the world soccer body, FIFA, to court over a ban on Cameroon's one-piece kit.