Brandsmiths appoints international sports disputes partner

IP law firm Brandsmiths, based in London and Manchester, has appointed international sports lawyer Nilo Effori as partner to strengthen its sports disputes practice.

Nilo brings more than two decades’ experience and has worked on more than 200 disputes before FIFA and the Court of Arbitration for Sport.

Based in Brandsmiths’ London office, he will advise clubs, players, coaches and agents across the UK and international markets on contractual, employment and transfer disputes, alongside disciplinary and governance proceedings.

His appointment coincides with the publication of his first book, The Court of Arbitration for Sport, a 550-page reference work analysing more than 150 CAS awards.

He is also working on a second publication focused on the Basketball Arbitral Tribunal.

Nilo said: “My decision was, above all, about people. 

“Having worked with Adam previously, I have always admired his approach and his genuine understanding of the realities of sports law. 

“Brandsmiths approaches sport the way its clients do - commercially, quickly and without unnecessary formality. 

“What I hope to build here is a leading international sports disputes practice, representing clubs, players, coaches and agents before FIFA and CAS, while strengthening the bridge between Brandsmiths and the international football market, where I have spent most of my career.”  

Nilo’s appointment follows Brandsmiths’ acquisition of Sipara and forms part of the firm's continued investment in specialist expertise as it looks to expand its international sports disputes offering.

Adam Morallee, chief executive at Brandsmiths, added: “Sports law is a major growth area for Brandsmiths, and Nilo’s arrival gives us real firepower internationally. 

“We already have deep expertise in sport, acting for world famous clubs, players and brands; and Nilo really adds to that bringing unrivalled experience across FIFA and CAS, a deep understanding of the global football market and the ambition to build something significant. 

“We are delighted to have him on board. Brandsmiths is growing quickly, and this appointment is a big part of where we’re going next.” 

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