Level continues to consolidate its position as a major player in the sports law market, with a dedicated and fast-growing team acting on some of the most high-profile and complex matters in the industry. Following a further year of growth, the firm boasts 18 specialist senior lawyers, supported by a team of juniors, allowing depth across all core disciplines – spanning corporate, commercial, disputes, regulatory, disciplinary, employment, and media rights. In the past 12 months, the firm has handled a high volume of player transfers and contractual matters, often led by co-founder Daniel Lowen, with advice provided on a number of marquee projects, including the Lucas Paquetá disciplinary investigation and various high-profile Premier League transfers and contractual matters. The firm’s client base includes major international governing bodies, teams, broadcasters, agencies, and high-profile athletes. Morris Bentata leads the media rights practice, assisting notable clients ranging FIFA, Netflix and DAZN, with activity in the women’s sport space becoming increasingly common. The disputes and regulatory arm of the practice is especially active, with Tim Lowles recognised for his leading reputation in sports litigation and reputation management, and Alastair Campbell handling a growing volume of disciplinary cases. On the commercial side, Fraser Reid and Dan Harrington are recommended. Jody MacDonald works on data, betting and technology matters, while managing associate Jonathan Hyman is highlighted for his developing boxing practice and broader talent matters.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Accolades

Client satisfaction

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • ‘Commercial understanding and knowledge. Very easy to work with and client service is exceptional.’

  • ‘Daniel Lowen is a leader in the sports and media industry and one of the best I've worked with. His manner and negotiation skills are exceptional.'

  • 'Jonathan Hyman is my point of contact at Level Law and a fantastic lawyer. His work ethic is incredible, and has a great knowledge and understanding of how to deal with a variety of clients and situations. I recommend him very highly.’
  • ‘They have a group of very strong and experienced sports law experts, some of whom are right at the top of their fields of expertise.'

  • ‘Deep knowledge of tennis and the business of sport in general.'

  • 'Combine strategic advice with detailed input - take a very thorough approach.'

Key clients

  • Lucas Paquetá
  • FIFA
  • Two Circles
  • ITF
  • Stats Perform
  • Reputation management work (TL & RS)
  • ISG, Setanta, AFC, DAZN
  • Migu China Mobile
  • DAZN
  • Pitch International

Work highlights

Acting for Lucas Paquetá in disciplinary proceedings brought by The FA, accusing Mr Paquetá of spot-fixing in relation to four Premier League matches
Advised FIFA on all of its major media rights deals for the FIFA World Cup and FIFA Women’s World Cup, including its historic agreement with Netflix for the next two FIFA Women’s World Cups in the USA.
Advising on the successful bid to bring the Invictus Games 2027 to Birmingham and drafting commercial agreements for use with sponsors and broadcasters.

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.

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.

Leading associates

Leading associates with regular involvement in their team's key work, and recognition from peers or clients as being ones to watch.

Other key lawyers

Daniel Lowen; Morris Bentata; Tim Lowles; Alastair Campbell; Fraser Reid; Dan Harrington; Jody MacDonald; Anand Patel; Liz Coley; Jonathan Hyman