Withers LLP

Withers LLP offers multidisciplinary expertise across commercial, regulatory, and dispute work. The firm advises a wide spectrum of stakeholders, including clubs, governing bodies, intermediaries, and individual athletes. Recent highlights include advising Premier League club Leicester City on loan facilities and representing Algerian boxer Imane Khelif in a high-profile arbitration with the IBA regarding her eligibility to compete. The team is active in the football and motor sport spaces, being well-versed in international player transfers, intermediary registration, sponsorship and licensing deals, and sports-related tax planning. Luca Ferrari, who splits his time between London and Milan, is the key contact in the team. Jon Bond specialises in receivables financing in sports context, often advising high-profile football clubs. Sharon Whitehouse and Libby Payne make significant contributions to the firm’s sport practice.