Clifford Chance LLP

Clifford Chance LLP’s sports practice has seen major growth, attracting industry recognition and press coverage for its involvement in high-profile mandates, notably including the ‘sports law trial of the century’ in which it defended Manchester City in disciplinary proceedings. A comprehensive team led by litigation specialists James Cranston, Chris Yates, and Jason Epstein represented the reigning Premier League champions against the Premier League, in light of the 115 charges of financial breaches against them. This case is demonstrative of the firm’s increased presence and capability in big-ticket sporting work, and on the transactional side, the team has advised key private equity investors on high-value deals including major domestic and international clubs and bodies. With deep expertise spanning commercial, IP, competition, and finance, the firm is a go-to adviser for major stakeholders and investors across UK and European sport. Jennifer Chimanga has an active transactional practice, whilst Jamie Andrew is the firm’s commercial lead.