Sought after for its ‘ability to find innovative and creative solutions’, Ashurst LLP has a solid track record assisting notable sports and entertainment, technology, and banking and finance clients, among others, on high-profile matters at both domestic and international levels. The team is particularly strong in behavioural work, ranging from abuse of dominance and bid rigging to restrictive conduct and cartels, although it is also adept at handling merger control proceedings, damages litigation, and regulatory compliance. At the helm of the department is Rafael Baena, who stands out for his expertise in merger control, abuse of dominance and cartel cases. Javier Torrecilla offers support in merger control, antitrust investigations and State aid issues.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- ‘The advantage we gain from collaborating with Ashurst is that they understand and adapt to our sector, providing specific and contextualised information. They deliver customised solutions.’
- ‘Rafael Baena and Javier Torrecilla generate trust and empathise with the client.’
- ‘Ashurst joins forces with the in-house legal team, working as one team, understanding the business and the solutions we seek.’
- ‘They have a thorough understanding of the processes and approach them from the customer's perspective. They are agile, respond promptly, and work proactively.’
- ‘Not only are they strong in terms of technical expertise, but I would also highlight their ability to find innovative and creative solutions, their excellent customer service, and their flexibility.’
- ‘Both Rafael Baena and Javier Torrecilla are outstanding. They are always available and focused on making things easy for the client, anticipating problems and proposing creative solutions.’
Key clients
- Union of European Football Associations (UEFA)
- Albia Gestión de Servicios
- Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA)
- Altadis
- Deutsche Bank
- Hewlett-Packard
- Elsamex
- AER
Work highlights
Representing UEFA in connection with all the litigation around the Superleague project.
Represented Albia in four merger control procedures before the CNMC regarding the acquisition of control of Tanatorios de Móstoles, Tanatorio de la Paz, Tanatorio de Marín, and PROCENESA and in the subsequent gun-jumping investigations by the CNMC.
Assisting Altadis with the appeal against the decision of the CNMC in an antitrust case regarding an alleged infringement of Article 101 TFEU and 1 LDC in the tobacco sector in Spain.
Practice head
Rafael Baena
Other key lawyers
Javier Torrecilla; Peter Turner-Kerr; Teresa Prado; Patricia Valenzuela