Latest Agreement Highlights Law Firm’s Growing Presence In Sports Sector

Irwin Mitchell has been appointed by UK Athletics (UKA) as its Official Legal Partner for the next three years.

The firm will support UKA with advice and regulatory guidance in key areas such as safeguarding, disciplinary investigations, and contentious and non-contentious commercial work.

The three-year partnership, which was brokered on behalf of UKA by Rocket Sports, will see Irwin Mitchell’s specialist lawyers provide a significant level of legal support for UKA ensuring key areas receive the dedicated resource that are essential for the governance of the sport.

The commitment was founded on a shared passion for supporting and continuing to improve the high standards of governance in the athletics industry and beyond.

Tom Barnard, partner and specialist sports lawyer at Irwin Mitchell, said:

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“We are thrilled to be confirmed as the official legal partner to UK Athletics. Irwin Mitchell has a proud track record representing national governing bodies and our appointment by UK Athletics recognises our expertise, our ability to work on all legal issues affecting sporting organisations and our reputation for establishing long-term and effective client partnerships.” Tom Barnard - Partner

UK Athletics Chief Finance Officer Mark Draisey said:

“I am delighted to confirm our partnership with Irwin Mitchell. Our recent overhaul of the safeguarding structures in addition to improved and enhanced procedures across governance have a significant financial impact when it comes to legal support.

“It is vital that we achieve partnerships that help reduce this cost for the good of the sport ensuring that budget and resource is channelled towards athletes, coaches and all the vital services provided by the National Governing Body.

“In Irwin Mitchell we have a like-minded partner that understands sport and the unique landscape in which we operate and we’re looking forward to building the relationship to benefit the sport.”

Last June, Irwin Mitchell was announced as the Official Legal Partner to British Rowing with a brief to support the organisation’s legal work and its commitment to becoming a more diverse organisation and sport. As part of the arrangement it recently advised on its new official teamwear partnership with Nike.

Irwin Mitchell is also the Official Legal Partner of England Rugby. This partnership has already seen the introduction of a Legal and Tax Helpline to support member clubs and the development of a new mentoring programme for young players.