Capable of supporting clients in the full spectrum of sports law mandates, integrating corporate, tax, employment, and regulatory advice' into its offering, Baker McKenzie acts for a diverse range of high-profile clients, including professional athletes, internationally recognised football clubs, and sports governing bodies. Practice head David Díaz has an established practice advising agents and intermediaries on the legal aspects of football transfers. Manuel Alonso holds a strong book of work acting for both football clubs and professional footballers, while Juan Gelabert is active in the sports finance sector. Carlos Hurtado has experience acting before governing bodies and tribunals, including FIFA and the Court of Arbitration for Sport.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Accolades
Client satisfaction: Billing & efficiency
Client satisfaction: Sector knowledge
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- ‘Baker McKenzie’s Spain practice has proven invaluable in its work with the us, offering cross-border legal support with deep sector expertise. The team excels in integrating corporate, tax, employment, and regulatory advice, particularly in stadium and commercial agreements. They are responsive, have strategic foresight, and excellent stakeholder coordination with Spanish authorities. ’
- ‘Everyone we have worked with at Baker McKenzie Spain has been great. They are very responsive, stay on top of matters and provide sound advice.’
Key clients
- African Talent Football Academy (Ghana football club)
- Football Club Barcelona
- Joselu Mato Sanmartin
- Neymar Jr.
- RC Celta de Vigo
- Real Club Deportivo Mallorca
- Sixth Street Partners
- Taica Corporation
- National Football League (NFL)
Work highlights
Advising the National Football League (NFL) on all the legal aspects related to hosting the NFL's first regular-season game in Spain.
Providing continuous ongoing legal and tax advice to RCD Mallorca (Spanish First Division football club) in relation to sports matters, as well as employment, tax, commercial/sponsorship agreements, real estate and corporate matters.
Advising Jose Luis Mato San Martín on his day-to-day legal and tax affairs, including the regular preparation of his income tax returns in Spain, the negotiation of lease agreements of his real estate properties in Spain, litigation with tenants, and the acquisition of real estate properties.
Lawyers
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Leading associates
Leading associates with regular involvement in their team's key work, and recognition from peers or clients as being ones to watch.
Carlos Hurtado
Practice head
David Diaz
Other key lawyers
Manuel Alonso; Juan Gelabert; Carlos Hurtado