McCormicks has an excellent track record in the sports sector and has an impressive number of key names on its client roster, including The Premier League. Under the leadership of Peter McCormick, who splits his time between London and Harrogate, the practice handles a range of contentious regulatory work and litigation matters; the latter is headed up by Philip Edmondson. Transactional lawyer James Towler advises national and international clients on corporate mandates, particularly acquisitions and disposals. The group is also skilled in advising shoot proprietors on lease renewals and site operations work. Head of the commercial property practice Heather Roberts and senior associate Sara Morgan, who advises on employment law, also contribute to the practice.

Walker Morris LLP fields a market-leading sports practice and is able to handle the full spectrum of work including dispute resolution and real estate mandates. Overseen by David Hinchcliffe, the group has extensive expertise in sports law and counts a number of football clubs including Fulham FC and Reading FC as key clients. Alistair McHenry is the key name for contentious mandates and leads the sports disputes team, which handles disciplinary proceedings, regulatory disputes and commercial arbitration proceedings. On the commercial property side, Jeremy Moore handles high-value portfolio transactions. Also in the team is senior associate Charlotte Smith, who advises clients on employment litigation and international immigration matters, and Liz Coley and Katie Reed.

The sports team at Clarion handles a range of corporate and dispute resolution matters for high-end sportswear brands and clubs. Led by Richard Moran in Leeds, the practice is able to leverage its strengths across banking and real estate law to handle acquisitions and leasing arrangements. Other key names include Eve Gregory and Charlie Smith.