Ashfords LLP is particularly renowned in the market for its expertise in the horse racing space, fielding a team that frequently acts for jockeys, trainers, clubs, associations, and regulatory bodies in high-profile disputes. The Bristol-based team is headed up by sport regulation and commercial litigation expert Rory Mac Neice, who is praised as ‘the best lawyer in the country for racing' and chiefly handles regulatory cases arising out of match fixing and anti-doping allegations. Alongside equestrian sports, the team is also capable of handling matters relating to swimming, tennis, and football, among others, and it regularly draws on the firm’s capabilities in the commercial and employment spaces to advise on trademark issues, governance matters, and commercial disputes.
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Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘Leaders in the field, with highly knowledgeable and skilful lawyers offering quality advice.’
‘Rory Mac Neice is an outstanding lawyer and instructing solicitor. He is the best lawyer in the country for racing. He knows more about that sport than any other, including the BHA and its disciplinary panel.'
'Rory Mac Neice is without peer in the horse racing sector. He is an exceptional sports lawyer with vast experience and ability.’
‘We value the in-depth knowledge of their subject combined with their vast experience of process and procedure.’
‘Rory Mac Neice continues to set the standard others should aspire to. His incredible knowledge and work rate should be a benchmark for all. His attention to detail, empathy with the client and passion for his profession, especially in the sport of horse racing, is impressive. His support knows no bounds.’
Key clients
- The Joint Measurement Board Ltd
- The Professional Jockey’s Association Ltd
- The National Trainers Federation
- Sir Mark Todd
- Dan Skelton Racing Ltd
- British Show Horse Association Ltd
- British Harness Racing Club Ltd
- Avon Racing Ltd
- Professional Golfers Association
Work highlights
- Acted for a champion trainer in Ireland in a positive anti-doing control hearing following a sample taken from one of his runners in the Champion Hurdle at the Cheltenham Festival.
- Acted for a champion jockey in his appeal against suspension imposed by raceday stewards at the 2023 Royal Ascot meeting.
- Acted for a leading jockey in connection with a positive anti-doping control and successfully established that the positive occurred through the innocent ingestion of over the counter medication while racing overseas.
Lawyers
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Practice head
Rory Mac Neice
Other key lawyers
Su Apps