The drivers’ Formula One championship has been decided for 2022, but there is still controversy over the legitimacy of Max Verstappen’s first win, in 2021, following Red Bull’s breaking of the cost cap according to the FIA, the sport’s governing body.
writes David Little, a Partner in our Commercial department who increasingly handles Sports Law cases too.
The breach of the £129 million budget cap, for motor manufacturers the FIA declared, ‘was minor’, which constitutes overspending by anything up to five per cent – as much as £6.5m. Not necessarily minor by most people’s calculations.
On and off the cricket pitch accusations of racism destabilised one of England’s leading county cricket teams this season to such an extent that Yorkshire County Cricket Club played so poorly they were relegated and will play in the second division.
The Yorkshire County Cricket Club racism scandal developed from complaints made in 2018 by former Yorkshire cricket player, Azeem Rafiq. Rafiq alleged that he was subjected to racist abuse and bullying during his two tenures at the club between 2008–2014, and 2016–2018 and accused the club of being institutionally racist.
An entirely different sport, Rugby Union, finds itself mired in argument and crisis as well. On the one hand they are two professional clubs who have fallen into administration. The once mighty Wasps, based in Coventry, and Worcester Warriors will not play in professional leagues.
And then there’s the beautiful game itself… I could mention the Men’s Football World Cup in Qatar and accusations of malfeasance and abuse of immigrant workers. But let’s leave that for another column.
We could have added gymnastics, cycling and the Olympics easily to the list.
What unites the professional sports mentioned above? These stories all highlight how valuable is the advice and guidance of an experienced lawyer.
In every instance the calamity befalling each of these sports will now no doubt be costing many thousands of pounds in fees to untangle. Much better to have used the guidance and reassurance of a professional legal expert to have anticipated in advance, ‘What might happen, if…?’ and avoid them altogether.
Contact our Corporate & Commercial Solicitors
Our team of firm-wide experts can support on a range of personal legal issues from property transactions to immigration, wealth protection and planning, and matrimonial and divorce matters. We can also provide corporate and commercial services including brand and reputation, contracts and disputes, and investments. You can be assured that we will provide you with the right legal team to service your individual issues.
To discuss your matter in confidence, contact David Little in the first instance: a Partner at Bishop & Sewell in our expert Corporate & Commercial and Sports Law department. Please quote Ref CB357 on 020 7631 4141 on mobile 07968 027 343 or email dlittle@bishopandsewell.co.uk.
The above is accurate as at 21 October 2022. The information above may be subject to change during these ever-changing times.
The content of this note should not be considered legal advice and each matter should be considered on a case-by-case basis.
