What will be the big topics of discussion in sports law in 2025? We interviewed the experts from one of the largest companies in the sector.

This year will be remembered as one in which key sporting decisions were made in the courtroom rather than the boardroom. With the Football Governance Bill, ongoing financial regulatory disputes and the continued rise of Saudi Arabia, 2025 is shaping up to be another busy year for sports lawyers.

1. The football governance bill: playing the referee

Despite some recent delays In the House of Lords, we hope to see the much-anticipated Football Governance Bill come into force in 2025.

On paper, especially given some of the additional powers that need to be granted to the new independent football regulatorthis represents the biggest upheaval in the governance of the beautiful game in a generation.

However, in practice, despite the eye-catching headlines, we do not expect a seismic shift in the way clubs are regulated – particularly in relation to day-to-day financial regulation, which will remain the responsibility of the Premier League and of the EFL. .

Instead, the football regulator’s mission will focus on careful examination of the propertyensuring the long-term viability of clubs and, more controversially, settling the financial fallout between the Premier League and EFL.

Critics argue that football’s regulator risks being both referee and player and lacks the resources to act as an effective day-to-day observer. But as insolvency fears and ownership controversies persist, most agree that it is now time for a more reliable arbiter to enter the field.

2. Manchester City vs. Premier League: the billion-dollar derby

It wouldn’t be a true sports law forecast without mentioning the ongoing Manchester City v Premier League saga.

We expect a (first) decision on the main charges no later than spring, but if recent history is to be believed, there will certainly be more to come. Expect further appeals and challenges – potentially from each party – as well as a possible reopening of the dispute over the rules for related party transactions.

The end result of all this? It’s still too early to tell, but it wouldn’t be surprising if we were still talking about this story next Christmas. New rules governing financial sustainabilitywhich many hope will reduce the likelihood of future conflicts, cannot come quickly enough.

3. Competition law: the improbable MVP

Along the same lines, while competition law may not excite everyday sports fans, it has quietly become the most valuable player. in sporting conflicts over the past year. THE dispute over the regulations of Fifa agentswhich are currently only partially in force, is a good example.

Next year we expect a final verdict from the European Court of Justice on whether these regulations can be fully enforced following a referral from the German courts, as well as on the continued use of competition law as a sword to thwart the will of regulators and other rights holders across the spectrum.

4. Arab fighting

If 2024 was the year Saudi Arabia took the global sporting stage by storm, 2025 will reveal whether it can maintain its position. Guarantee the 2034 World Cupmaking headlines with astronomical investments in boxing and esports, and poaching high-profile footballers for its league are all part of the kingdom’s ambitious game plan.

However, the first audience figures for Saudi Professional League suggest fans haven’t yet followed the money. It remains to be seen whether this is a short-term setback or a long-term strategy flaw.

Whatever the outcome, we expect to see much greater demand for sports law expertise – particularly when it comes to managing complex naming rights and sponsorship deals, up to to the thorny questions of image rights and disputes linked to intellectual property.

5. Sports Tech and Data: the new gold rush

From wearable technology follow every movement of the athletes to AI-powered fan engagement toolsThe sports technology market continues to grow.

But big innovations often come with complicated litigation – in particular, data rights are likely to remain a hot topic. Tech providers, leagues, and athletes are all vying for their share of the digital gold.

Questions regarding the ownership of relevant data and how such data can be monetized will continue to arise, particularly in light of the new EU AI law and the new data law.

Sports law in 2025: Conclusion

We believe 2025 will continue to demonstrate the growing importance of sports law to the industry.

From governance reforms to financial litigation to cutting-edge technology, football and other sports are grappling with significant legal challenges that will ultimately shape their future landscapes.

So grab your scarves, your law textbooks and probably a strong Bovril too – it’s going to be an exciting adventure.

Simon Leaf is a partner and head of sport and Tom Murray is a managing partner at Mishcon de Reya in London.