Hogan Lovells sponsors global soccer event in Miami, discusses FIFA World Cup enforcement

Press releases | 16 November 2023

Miami, 16 November 2023 — A trio from global law firm Hogan Lovells participated in Miami’s fourth SoccerEx installment, bringing together more than 70 speakers and leading global soccer industry professionals. The event held from 14 - 15 November discussed the game’s performance, broadcasting, good governance, fan engagement, athlete development, technology, analytics, and major tournaments. Hogan Lovells partners Hans Hertell and Katie Hellings, as well as counsel Dan Shulak, participated in the two-day event held at the Mana Wynwood Convention Center.

The event also focused on the 2026 FIFA World Cup, to be jointly hosted by 16 cities in the United States, Canada, and Mexico, including a robust discussion of antitrust enforcement leading up to the tournament. Hellings, a former Department of Justice antitrust prosecutor, was interviewed by SoccerEx TV host and CBS Sports journalist Ben Jacobs, discussing the importance of antitrust compliance, especially in light of the host nations’ unprecedented initiative to deter, detect, and prosecute collusive schemes related to the provision of goods and services in connection with the event. She provided an overview on the legal landscape, the potential enforcement risks, and the compliance needed for companies doing business in relation to the tournament.

Hans Hertell, Hogan Lovells litigation and IP partner based in Miami, noted: “Our firm is heavily involved in soccer-related legal matters, including representing owners in M&A transactions, teams in corporate and dispute matters, and governing bodies of sport. We are thrilled to have had the opportunity to participate in and sponsor SoccerEx Miami, particularly in the exciting lead up to the 2026 FIFA World Cup. A tournament of that scale will undoubtably bring with it a range of complex, multijurisdictional disputes and governance matters. Hogan Lovells is proud to work with key stakeholders in such a rapidly growing sport here in the U.S., bringing together skilled players, owners, and legal practitioners across the globe.”

Hogan Lovells also sponsored the production studio for SoccerEx TV, hosted by Jacobs and former professional soccer player Rodney Wallace, who interviewed Hellings and other speakers, sponsors, and key stakeholders throughout the event.

Further details can be found here.