Department profile
DLA Piper LLP (US)

Sports Law

USA Guide 2026 : USA - Nationwide


DLA Piper LLP (US)

Rankings

Chambers Review

Provided by Chambers

Sports Law - USA - Nationwide

Band 2

Band 2


What the Team is Known For

DLA Piper has an established practice valued for its longstanding expertise in a range of transactional and development matters. The law firm advises an impressive portfolio of sports teams, leagues and broadcasters on a range of complex concerns, with notable expertise in stadium development, financing, employment and real estate mandates. It is able to leverage its impressive global network on cross-border mandates.

Work Highlights

Provided by Chambers

  • DLA Piper LLP represented the San Francisco 49ers in several minority equity stakes transactions, achieving a club valuation of $8.6 billion.

Strengths

Provided by Chambers

  • It has an acute understanding of the dynamics of the sports industry, and a team that can explain complex legal matters in simple and digestible ways to facilitate decision-making.

    Sports Law respondentUSA
  • DLA Piper's market knowledge, deal savviness and breadth of experience are exceptional.

    Sports Law respondentUSA
  • The team demonstrates world-class customer service, making them a joy to work with and always prompt and thorough with their work.

    Sports Law respondentUSA

Notable Practitioners

Provided by Chambers

  • Senior StatespeoplePeter C White
    Senior StatespeoplePeter C White

    Peter C White

    Peter White's diverse practice encompasses M&A and real estate issues, as well as contentious proceedings. He is held in high regard among major sports leagues, including the NBA and NFL.

  • Band 2Mark Whitaker
    Band 2Mark Whitaker

    Mark Whitaker

    Mark Whitaker maintains a strong reputation in the sports space. He has significant experience advising major associations such as the NHL and NFL on a broad spectrum of corporate transactions.
    • Mark is a great resource due to his depth of experience with us as a client.

      Sports Law respondentUSA
  • Band 4Richard Allan Rubano
    Band 4Richard Allan Rubano

    Richard Allan Rubano

    Global co-chair of DLA Piper's media, sports and entertainment sector, Richard Allan Rubano frequently acts for key industry players such as investors, buyers and sellers, as well as established sports franchises. He displays particular strength in handling high value transactional matters within the sector.

Ranked Individuals at DLA Piper LLP (US) (3)

USA - Nationwide

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