Bird & Bird has a market-leading group of specialist lawyers instructed on the most complex and high-profile regulatory matters in world sport, including disputes and compliance. The team acts for an enviable client base of leading international federations, governing bodies, sports clubs and corporate entities. Its stellar commercial team advises on media rights acquisitions, tenders and sponsorship deals, as well as sport-related acquisitions and divestments. It has experience throughout a wide range of sports including athletics, rugby union, football, motorsports and cricket, and is internationally revered for its performance on large-scale investigations and external reviews.

"The level of support and its timeliness have been excellent. Answers to complex and dynamic issues have been well considered and thought through, and they provide timely, constructive and solution-focused advice."

"One of the Bird & Bird's strengths is that it has a broad range of knowledge and experience, which it uses to distil complex and sophisticated issues into understandable advice."

"Bird & Bird's sports team is market-leading."

Bird & Bird advised the English Football League on arbitration proceedings with the Professional Footballers' Association relating to the EFL's decision to implement a salary cap in two of its divisions.

Jonathan Taylor is head of Bird & Bird's sports group in London. He is a market-leading sports solicitor who offers governing and regulatory bodies the benefit of his expertise in tribunals, investigations and reviews. "Jon Taylor has provided us with sound, clear and practical legal advice on various complex issues." "He's exceptional and without equal in sports law."

Max Duthie handles a range of significant matters for major governing bodies in football and rugby including governance reviews, disciplinary proceedings and investigations. "He's a genuinely trusted adviser."

Craig Giles is head of the sports group's media rights practice. As well as advising on media rights programmes, he also assists sports clients with their commercial agreements. "You can trust Craig, I never doubt his advice." "Craig is an excellent, knowledgeable resource who is always available to provide support."

Lauren Pagé became a partner in Bird & Bird's sports team in May 2022. She is recognised for advising international sporting bodies on governance and regulatory issues. "Her knowledge of sporting rules is second to none, as is her commitment to supporting our team."