Latham & Watkins regularly advises on high-profile, high-value matters within the sporting world, with a client base that spans governing bodies, investors, broadcasters, teams, and sponsors. The team is particularly active on transactional mandates involving private capital and sports investment, as well as complex commercial, regulatory, and event-driven projects. It has recently advised the England & Wales Cricket Board on structuring investment into the eight teams in The Hundred competition. Other key mandates include acting for Manchester United on the sale of a minority stake to INEOS Chairman Sir Jim Ratcliffe. Patrick Mitchell leads the sports practice and has particular expertise advising clients on media rights and sponsorship arrangements. Corporate partners Farah O’Brien, Martin Davies and Edward Barnett contribute to the practice. Sanjev Warna-kula-suriya and Samuel Newhouse are also cited as integral players.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Accolades
Client satisfaction
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘Vibrant and deep sports and entertainment law practice. Great at cross-border deals brining unique experience to new situations. Supported by a top banking and finance practice and corporate/M&A practitioners to provide a full service offering.’
‘Patrick Mitchell - standout talent and great with clients. Trusted advisor who has helped us navigate challenging situations. Thoughtful and well-informed, capable of connecting with other parts of the firm for support. Exceptional lawyer.’
‘This practice stands out for its innovative and agile approach to the rapidly evolving Technology, Media, and Telecommunications (TMT) sector. In a market defined by constant disruption and digital transformation, the team is known for being ahead of the curve, anticipating client needs and regulatory shifts before they materialise'.
Work highlights
Advising Manchester United plc on its agreement with Sir Jim Ratcliffe, the Chairman of INEOS, under which he has acquired up to a 25 per cent. shareholding in the company.
Represented the Saudi Arabian Ministry of Sport and Football Federation on its official bid to host the FIFA World Cup 2034™.
Represented Endeavor, a global sports and entertainment company, in connection with sale to Silver Lake, the global leader in technology investing, in partnership with the Endeavor management team and additional anchor investors.
Lawyers
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Practice head
Patrick Mitchell
Other key lawyers
Farah O'Brien; Martin Davies; Edward Barnett; Samuel Newhouse; Sanjev Warna-kula-suriya