Farrer & Co boasts notable expertise in safeguarding, reputation management, and employment-related advisory work, regularly counselling a range of significant sports clients. The team is routinely instructed by national governing bodies, professional clubs, and international federations. The group has acted on safeguarding audits, investigations, and appeals, often involving complex case management and cross-border regulatory considerations. It also regularly advises on high-profile reputation issues and handles employment investigations linked to safeguarding and misconduct. Julian Pike is recognised for his longstanding work at the intersection of sport, media, and reputation management. Tom Bruce leads the practice and is a key contact for a number of major international clients. Katie Fudakowski leads the safeguarding branch of the practice, whilst Owen O’Rorke continues to advise on data privacy and confidentiality issues.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Accolades

Client satisfaction: Sector knowledge

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • ‘Farrer & Co has a long history of engagement with sports clubs and governing bodies across a range of legal issues including safeguarding, equality and diversity and sports regulation. The firm has very good strength in depth of partners and associates with expertise in legal issues which impact on sport and associated issues.’

  • ‘The team have always worked collaboratively with me and my team in a really timely manner; they all have an awareness and understanding of the nuances of each case and clearly explain options for me to manage situations.’

Lawyers

Leading partners

The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.

Next Generation Partners

Junior partners with significant recognition from clients and peers in the market and key roles on multiple matters.

Practice head

Tom Bruce

Other key lawyers

Julian Pike; Katie Fudakowski; Owen O'Rorke; India Benjamin