Tue, September 29, 2026
Sports Arbitration: More Than Just Lawyers - Is It Time to Rethink Who Decides?
Join us during London Arbitration Week for a panel discussion exploring what makes sports dispute resolution trusted, effective and fit for the future.
Sports disputes are rarely just about the law. They can involve technical issues, scientific factors, financial data and the realities of sport. Should the people deciding these disputes bring more than legal expertise to the table? Should a sports tribunal be made up solely of lawyers, or should non-legal knowledge have an equal place in the decision-making process?
The traditional arbitration model gives parties a role in selecting their arbitrators and the tribunal completed through the appointment of a chair. But is this the right model for sports disputes? Should parties choose their arbitrators, or can a different model provide greater independence and broader expertise? Does independence begin with the arbitrator or with who gets to choose them?
The panel will explore the balance between legal expertise, specialist knowledge, independence and diverse perspectives, and consider how approaches to tribunal constitution can shape confidence in the dispute resolution process. The discussion will ask what the next generation of sports dispute resolution should look like, and whether traditional arbitration models are equipped to meet complex disputes.
Following the panel, guests are warmly invited to a networking reception to continue the conversation and connect with peers across the wider legal and sports communities. Representatives from Sport Resolutions will also be available during the reception to answer any questions about the panel and the upcoming application process.
The speakers will be announced in due course.
Date & Time: Thursday, 3 December | 16:30 - 18:00
Location: 1 Paternoster Lane, St Paul’s, London, EC4M 7BQ
Please note that spaces are limited. Registration is required to attend, and we encourage you to register here.
