Led by ‘benchmark in sports law’ Luca Ferrari, Withers Studio Legale houses a multifaceted sports practice, well-versed in handling corporate investments and M&A, tax matters, commercial projects, and regulatory compliance for clients involved in a vast range of sports, from football and basketball to Formula 1, sailing, and boxing. The team is also noted for its representation of high-profile sportspeople, clubs, and agents in disputes with federations, regulatory bodies, and other stakeholders. Ferrari is supported by Alessia Murgia, a football specialist with significant experience advising Serie A clubs and prominent players and agents on an array of matters. Other notable team members include Mario D’Anna and Fiona Giordani.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- ‘Every individual at Withers Studio Legale brings exceptional expertise to every aspect of my legal projects. Under the leadership of Luca Ferrari, the team operates with calm precision and unwavering determination. Luca is a rare blend of insight and composure. He is a shrewd strategist who quickly grasps complex situations and inspires his team to go the extra mile, consistently delivering excellence.'
- ‘Luca Ferrari's knowledge and experience in the area of my interest, along with his constant ability to keep himself updated and to be available.'
- ‘I was more than satisfied with the quality of the service, the precision and speed of the work and responses.’
- ‘Luca Ferrari - high competence and professionalism, great network in the world of sports, does more than he is asked. I feel that he cares about my interests.’
- ‘Luca Ferrari is a benchmark in sports law and one of the most respected figures in the field internationally. What sets him apart is his capacity to combine legal precision with strategic vision, offering advice that is not only technically sound but also operationally and reputationally impactful.'
- ‘I would like to emphasise the expertise of Luca Ferrari and Alessia Murgia, as well as their kindness and availability.’
Key clients
- Imane Khelif
- S.S.P. Reyer Venezia Mestre Srl
- Stellar Italy Srl
- FC32
- Fali Ramadani/Federico Chiesa
- CAA Stellar Limited
- Wojciech Szczęsny
- Red Mouse Consultants Limited
- Union des Associations Européennes de Football (UEFA)
- Luna Rossa Challenge Srl
- Cinzia Giovinco – Tyra Grant
- UPG Srl – Umberto Ferrara
Work highlights
Assisted FC32 in its acquisition of the entire share capital of Spezia Calcio from the Platek family.
Represented S.S.P. Reyer Venezia Mestre before the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) in a dispute against FIBA concerning the international transfer of a contracted player and the issuance of a letter of clearance by the Serbian Basketball Federation.
Assisted Stellar Italy Srl throughout the January 2025 winter transfer window, including the legal assistance on the transfer of Nicolò Fagioli from Juventus to Fiorentina (EUR 4M value), the transfer of Maxence Caqueret from Olympique Lyonnais to Como 1907 (EUR 5M value), and the transfer of Cheick Niasse from BSC Young Boys to Hellas Verona (EUR 1.3M value).
Lawyers
Hall of Fame
The lawyers at the very top of the profession, widely known and respected by peers and clients for their longstanding involvement in market-leading work.
Practice head
Luca Ferrari
Other key lawyers
Alessia Murgia; Mario D'Anna; Filippo Molinari, Fiona Giordani