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"A dominant force in sports law, with an
exceptional bench of experienced and skillful sports practitioners."
Chambers USA Band 1 Ranking
Covington’s dedication to the business of sports runs broad and deep. Our work spans the industry—from league and association structuring, governance, and rule-making matters to acquisitions of franchises or other sports related businesses; from launches of single sport and regional sports networks to groundbreaking Internet and mobile media agreements; from the formation of new e-sport start-up ventures to multi-billion dollar stadium financings, Covington has played a central role in headline-making sports matters for decades.
For more than 50 years, we have represented major U.S. and international sports organizations, among them Major League Baseball, Major League Soccer, NASCAR, NBA, NFL, NHL, USOC, USGA, UFC, USTA and the American Athletic Association, Atlantic 10 and Pacific-12 conferences in the United States; the FIA (the governing body of Formula 1 racing), Drayson Technologies and British Horseracing Authority in Europe; and League of Legends maker Riot Games and parent Tencent Holdings in the U.S. and China (e-sports ventures). We also have advised a host of individual leagues, teams, and clubs in the U.S. and internationally, including with respect to governance and league structuring, and we have also advised prospective owners and investors looking to enter the industry through team or other business acquisitions or joint ventures.
Sports industry participants regularly seek our advice for complex, industry-shaping legal questions covering such diverse matters as antitrust counseling, collective bargaining, copyright enforcement, financings, governance, insurance recovery, litigation, media rights development, mergers and acquisitions, regulatory affairs, sponsorships, and state, federal, and international tax.
Securing Labor Peace for the NFL
Defended the 2011 lockout against the antitrust claims in Brady v. NFL; negotiated a comprehensive 10-year CBA providing labor peace.
$2 billion Los Angeles Clippers Acquisition
Represented Steve Ballmer in his $2 billion acquisition of the Los Angeles Clippers from The Sterling Family Trust.
NHL Digital Rights and Related Transactions with MLB Advanced Media
Represented the NHL in connection with entry into a six-year digital rights partnership under which the NHL licensed to MLB Advanced Media (MLBAM) rights to distribute the NHL’s out-of-market subscription packages, digital and online properties, and related rights, and in connection with negotiations for an equity stake in a to-be-formed tech company that is expected to be created by MLBAM.
Multi-Billion Dollar NFL Sunday Ticket Deal
Represented the NFL in negotiating its multi-billion dollar deal with DIRECTV to extend DIRECTV's exclusive rights to carry the NFL Sunday Ticket out-of-market games package through a new multi-year agreement. The new agreement expands DIRECTV’s rights to stream NFL Sunday Ticket on mobile devices and via broadband, and provides for the NFL and DIRECTV to explore the development of an NFL Sunday Ticket over-the-top subscription service. The deal also provides for DirecTV to continue to carry NFL Network.
Defeating Collusion Claims
Secured dismissal of purported multi-billion dollar collusion claim brought by the NFL Players Association.
Secured a “No Change” Letter After a $1.1B Economic Substance Challenge
Secured a “no change” letter from the IRS Examination division after its challenge to the economic substance of a taxpayer’s $1.1 billion financing program.
Joint Venture for Creation and Launch of 120 Sports
Represented NHL in connection with its entry into a joint venture with Silver Chalice Partners, Sports Illustrated and Major League Baseball Advance Media for the creation and launch of 120 Sports, the first multi-sport, league-created digital network in the United States. In addition to MLB and NHL content, the digital network will include content from the NBA, NASCAR and a number of college conferences. The network is expected to offer 24/7 programming on an unauthenticated basis, including live sports highlights and related news programming.
Launch of the WWE Network
Represented WWE in the launch of the WWE Network, a direct-to-consumer, subscription-only, online video channel that will air round-the-clock programming, including new programs and matches, an on-demand service, WrestleMania, and a six-decades-deep library for $9.99 a month. This is one of the first sports “over the top” offerings in the United States and the transaction received a great deal of publicity as a result.
IRS Disputes with Sports Clubs and Affiliated Cable Network
Negotiated highly favorable settlements with the IRS in the representation of a professional sports club in a $275 million dispute regarding stadium financing, player contracts, and broadcast agreements, and of a different club in a $300 million dispute regarding the club’s affiliated cable network.
Kangaroo Media Inc. in Negotiation of Agreement with Formula One
Kangaroo Media Inc. in the negotiation of an agreement with Formula One for the rights to provide a handheld TV service to racing fans at F1 events around the world.
Kayne Anderson Capital Advisors on a Range of Sports Lending Transactions and Other Investments
Represented Kayne Anderson Capital Advisors on a range of its lending transactions and other investments, including loans to (and other investments in) Sport 10 IP Limited, the holding company that owns all of Pelé’s marketing rights as well as the rights to all of Pelé commercial appearances.
Landmark Ruling for Tennis Channel
FCC handed Covington a decisive victory to the Tennis Channel in its discriminatory carriage lawsuit against Comcast Cable Communications, the largest distributor of video programming content.
Largest Media Rights Deal in NHL History
Represented the NHL in negotiating its 12 year, C$5.232 billion agreement with Rogers Communications for national broadcast and multimedia rights to NHL games, including the Stanley Cup Playoffs and Stanley Cup Final, in Canada. The agreement is the largest media rights deal in NHL history and one of the largest media rights deals, including the largest-ever sports-media rights agreement, in Canadian history.
Launch of LA Dodgers Regional Sports Network
Represented Time Warner Cable Inc. in a joint venture with the Los Angeles Dodgers to create a regional sports network that now carries the team’s games and in connection with the related distribution and license agreements.
Launch of the Indian Super League
Represented an affiliate of Reliance Industries in the launch of the Indian Super League, a professional soccer league in India, including structuring of the league and its governing documents, and sale of franchise rights.
Major League Baseball in the launch of the MLB Network
Represented MLB in connection with the formation and launch of the MLB Network, including negotiating joint venture arrangements with major carriers and the MLB Network’s carriage terms.
Acquisition of the New Orleans Hornets
Represented Tom Benson, owner of the New Orleans Saints, in his acquisition of the New Orleans Hornets NBA franchise.
Acquisition of Commercial Rights to Pelé Brand
Represented Kayne Anderson Capital Advisors in connection with the acquisition of commercial rights to Pelé’s name and likeness.
Erie Hockey Club Limited
Represent Ontario Hockey League as creditor and contract counterparty in the EHCL Chapter 11 case.
Formation of the Indian Super League
Advised Football Sports Development on the formation of the Indian Super League (ISL).
Golden State Warriors Sale
Represented Christopher Cohan in his $450 million sale of the Golden State Warriors NBA franchise.
Tax Court Victory re: Expense Deduction Matter on Behalf of National Sports Team
Successfully litigated a matter before the Tax Court involving the taxable nature and deductibility of meal expenses on behalf of the Boston Bruins. The decision has implications for most national sports teams as well as other employers who provide meals to employees as a de minimis fringe benefit. Jacobs v. Commissioner, Tax Court Docket No. 019009-15.
American Athletic Conference Regarding Financial Aid Limits for Student Athletes
Represent the American Athletic Conference in a putative antitrust class action challenging NCAA and Conference rules on financial aid limits for student athletes. This lawsuit challenges the very existence of amateur collegiate athletics.
American Athletic Conference Related to Conference Realignment
Represented the American Athletic Conference (then known as the Big East Conference) in matters related to college conference realignment. In all, Covington has secured for the Conference more than $65 million in exit/cancellation fees.
Barclays in the Acquisition of the Naming Rights to Barclays Center
Represented Barclays in connection with its acquisition of the naming rights to Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York, for a term of 20 years.
NFL Lockout Class Action
Represented the National Football League in a class action antitrust case in which the NFL Players Association and ten prominent players sought to enjoin the NFL’s lockout of its player-employees. The U.S. Court of Appeals for the Eighth Circuit ruled for the National Football League, vacating the injunction entered by the District Court on the ground that the injunction violated the Norris-LaGuardia Act, which prohibits judicial interference in labor disputes.
Broadcasters, Washington Post, and NFL on Broadband Matters
Advised local broadcasters, which have unique content in many markets, as they explore deals to move their content to broadband platforms, advised the Washington Post, and worked for many years with the NFL on a range of important communications and media issues, including debates on Sunday Ticket, importation of distant signals, and Internet gambling.
Commercial Contract for American Football League
Advised the National Football League in its eight-year agreement with ESPN providing for Monday Night Football, the most successful series in sports media history, to remain on ESPN through the 2021 NFL season.
Content Providers on Broadcasting, Online, and Digital Media Advertising Trends
Advised major content providers, including sports leagues and television programmers and operators, on broadcasting, online and digital media advertising trends.
Creation and launch of 120 Sports
Advised the NHL in connection with its entry into a joint venture with Silver Chalice Partners, Sports Illustrated and Major League Baseball Advance Media for the creation and launch of 120 Sports, the first multi-sport, league-created digital network in the United States. In addition to MLB and NHL content, the digital network will include content from the NBA, NASCAR and a number of college conferences. The network is expected to offer 24/7 programming on an unauthenticated basis, including live sports highlights and related news programming.
Department of Taxation Club Audits
Persuaded a state Department of Taxation to reverse its long-held, industry-wide position regarding sports clubs’ apportionment methodologies and to consequently drop 14 separate club audits.
GSP Finance in NBA Team Financings
Represented GSP Finance as lender in its NBA -related financings, including financings provided to the Sacramento Kings and the holding company for the New Jersey Nets.
Innovative Program Agreements Negotiations for Multiple Clients
Negotiated various innovative program agreements for (a) the NFL, including for example, its deals with ESPN and Sprint and one with TiVo to protect its programming against Internet piracy, (b) other program deals involving PBS, Comcast and Children’s Television Workshop and (c) NBC Weather Plus and NBC Broadband -- joint ventures between the network and its affiliates.
International Amateur Athletic Federation (IAAF), the world’s governing body for track and field
In persuading a U.S. appellate court to accept its disciplinary procedure in an anti-doping case as a valid arbitration award, not subject to judicial challenge by a star athlete, Mary Decker Slaney. 244 F.3d 580 (7th Cir. 2001).
Los Angeles Clippers Acquisition
Represented Steve Ballmer in his $2 billion acquisition of the Los Angeles Clippers from The Sterling Family Trust.
Media Rights Agreements
Represented the PGA of America, the USTA, the U.S. Olympic Committee, the American Athletic Conference, the A-10 Conference, the Chicago Cubs, and the LA Clippers (among others) in connection with the negotiation of their media rights agreements.
NFL Sale of the Buffalo Bills
Represented the NFL in the $1.4 billion sale and related $200 million financing of the Buffalo Bills franchise to Terry and Kim Pegula.
NFL Sports Data Collaboration with Sportsradar
Represented The National Football League on its next generation data collaboration with Sportsradar, a European sports data company.
NFL Sunday Ticket DirecTV Deal
Representation of the National Football League in connection with its deal to extend DirecTV's exclusive rights to carry NFL Sunday Ticket in a multi-year agreement.
Policies surrounding pre-hire background checks
Advised a major sports league on the procedures for conducting pre-hire background checks under the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) and state law, and drafted appropriate contract language and consent forms accordingly.
Robert A. Cook (Sacramento Kings)
Represented Chris Hansen and Steve Ballmer in connection with their purchase of a limited partnership interest in the Sacramento Kings from this Chapter 11 debtor.
Ticketing
We advise league and team clients on ticketing strategies and policies, and on transactions with primary ticketing providers, brokers, and secondary ticketing platforms. We have also successfully defended clients in ticketing-related litigation and investigation matters.
Multiple successes for independent contractors
Successfully defended Capital Cities/ABC, GE, the NFL, Verizon, and the Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America in separate suits against claims that independent contractors were entitled to benefits under company plans.
NFL in Negotiations for Digital Downloads
Representation of the National Football League in negotiations for digital downloads of NFL content and a wide range of other new media deals with Yahoo!, iTunes and others.
NBA in Live Virtual Reality Streaming with NextVR
We represented the NBA in a multi-year deal to stream live NBA games in virtual reality in a partnership with NextVR, which will become the official live virtual reality partner of the NBA. During the 2016-2017 season, live VR games will first be available to NBA League Pass subscribers, with single-game purchase opportunities to follow for all VR consumers as the NextVR app becomes available on new VR devices.
Pac-12 Networks in Twitter Streaming Deal
We represented Pac-12 Networks in its deal with Twitter for streaming of 150 live Olympic sports events from the Pac-12 universities.
Fox Networks Group in Online Distribution Agreements
We represented Fox Networks Group in various agreements for carriage of the Fox suite of cable networks and the Fox owned and operated broadcast television stations on various “over-the-top” Internet-based distribution platforms.
NASCAR in Production and Distribution of Daytona 500 Content
NASCAR in connection with the production and distribution of content related to the Daytona 500 on iTunes.
NBA Expanded Partnerships with Turner Broadcasting and The Walt Disney Company
Represented the NBA in expanding its partnerships with Turner Broadcasting System, Inc. and The Walt Disney Company through new, nine-year agreements under which ABC, TNT, and ESPN will televise NBA games beginning with the 2016-17 season and running through the 2024-25 season.
NBA Properties and NBA Member Teams in Trademark Litigation Concerning the DREAM TEAM Mark
Representation of NBA Properties and the NBA member teams in trademark litigation concerning the DREAM TEAM mark in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Missouri, and also in anti-counterfeiting litigation concerning other NBA marks brought in the United States District Court for the District of Columbia against purveyors of counterfeit NBA merchandise in connection with an NBA All-Star game.
NFL CBA Arbitrations
Represented the NFL in a host of arbitrations under the NFL collective bargaining agreements, including the disputes regarding the Jimmy Graham Franchise Tender, the Drew Brees Franchise Tender, the Michael Vick, Plaxico Burress, and Larry Johnson salary forfeitures, and the Washington Redskins/Dallas Cowboys salary cap reallocation.
NFL Eligibility Rules
Successfully defended the NFL’s college draft eligibility rules from antitrust challenge in Clarett v. NFL (2d Cir.) and in separate litigation secured recovery from insurers for the firm’s defense costs in the antitrust litigation.
NFL Financings
Advised the NFL on its multi-billion dollar league-wide credit facilities, consisting of a revolving credit facility and multiple term note offerings. Over 20 NFL teams participate in these facilities, which are negotiated by the NFL on behalf of its member clubs and allow participating clubs to obtain financing on favorable terms through a structured arrangement that gives lenders priority access to the teams’ share of national television revenues and which is otherwise secured by a pledge of all of the assets of each participating club.
NFL in $17 Billion, 8-Year U.S. Programming Agreements
Representation of the National Football League in its $17 billion, 8-year U.S. network television programming agreements and in its agreements with AOL, SportsLine.com and others for the joint production of the official NFL websites.
NFL in $18 Billion Eight-Year Programming Agreements
The National Football League in negotiating its $18 billion eight-year programming agreements with ABC, CBS and Fox Television, its interactive media rights/online cross-promotion and marketing agreement with AOL, CBS and Sportsline.com, and its international content distribution deal with Yahoo!
NFL in Antitrust Challenge to NFL “Sunday Ticket” Broadcast Arrangements
Defending NFL in multi-district class action antitrust challenges to its broadcast distribution arrangements for out-of-market games (In re Sunday Ticket Antitrust Litigation).
NFL in Antitrust Challenge to Trademark Licensing Arrangements
Defending NFL in class action and direct antitrust challenges to its trademark licensing arrangements (American Needle v. NFL and Dang v. NFL).
NFL in copyright infringement action
Represented the National Football League in a copyright infringement action against a satellite carrier, successfully obtaining statutory damages and a permanent injunction prohibiting satellite retransmission of game telecasts originating in the United States to locations outside the United States.
NFL in Copyright Registration and Combatting Unauthorized Retransmission
Assist the National Football League in registering copyright and combatting the unauthorized retransmission and public performance of NFL game telecasts over the internet.
NFL in Dismissal of Antitrust Complaint
Won dismissal of a class action antitrust complaint alleging conspiracy to restrain market for “likenesses” of former NFL football players (Washington v. National Football League).
NFL in Multiple Federal Court Cases
Representation of the National Football League in multiple federal court cases to enjoin the unauthorized retransmission and public performance of NFL game telecasts across U.S. borders via satellite and the Internet and within U.S. borders where games are locally blacked-out, or otherwise unauthorized.
NFL Likeness Licensing Class Action Antitrust Suit
Represented the NFL in securing the dismissal of class action claims brought by retired players alleging a conspiracy to restrain a market for the sale of their images and likenesses.
NFL in the renewal of Motorola's sideline sponsorship
Represented the NFL in the renewal of Motorola’s sideline sponsorship with the NFL for coaches’ headsets and other wireless equipment. Covington helped the NFL define the rules—and the scope of the covered business category—to ensure a win for both sides.
NFL Summary Judgment for Case Alleging Breach of Duties
Secured the dismissal, affirmed on appeal, of claims that the League had breached certain duties to players who had lost substantial sums as the result of fraud by an investment advisor.
NFL Logo Licensing Antitrust Class Action
Represented the National Football League in a class action challenging the League’s licensing arrangements for the use of team marks and logos on apparel.
NHL in connection with naming rights of Bell Centre in Montreal
Represented the NHL in connection with the Montreal Canadians' securitization of naming rights revenues for Bell Centre in Montreal.
NHL on $5 Billion Canadian Broadcast Rights Deal
Advised the National Hockey League in negotiating its twelve-year, C$5.2 billion agreement with Rogers Communications for national broadcast and multimedia rights to NHL games, including the Stanley Cup Playoffs and the Stanley Cup Final, in Canada.
NHL on Domestic and International Tax Issues
Represented the NHL on domestic and cross-border tax, corporate, and intellectual property issues related to the creation of the NHL Network, and, separately, to the NHL’s increasing business activity outside North America.
Nike stadium sponsorship transactions and associated sports apparel merchandizing agreements
Negotiated on behalf of Nike on stadium sponsorship transactions and associated sports apparel merchandizing agreements involving F.C. Internazionale Milano, the Football Union of Russia, and the Cardiff Rugby Football Club.
No-Change Audits for Sports Leagues and Affiliates
Secured “no change” letters in income tax audits of two sports leagues and three leagues’ for-profit affiliates (five separate audits).
NFL and Other Professional Sports Leagues Regarding Tax-Exempt Status
Representation of the NFL and other sports leagues in tax, corporate, legislative, and PR matters related to the relinquishment of their tax-exempt status. Projects involved tax planning, meetings with IRS executives and members of Congress, and coordination of audit defense strategy.
Numerous Clients in Managing U.S. and Global Trademark Portfolios
Advise on cutting edge trademark strategies, domain name, social media, and keyword advertising issues, manage U.S. and global portfolios, and provided trademark advisory and prosecution services to leading US and global brand owners, including: American Automobile Association (AAA); AOL, Inc.; Astelllas US; Business Software Alliance; Dale & Thomas Popcorn; Expedia, Inc.; FeraDyne Outdoors; German American Chambers of Commerce; Lewis Bakeries, Inc.; Merck & Co. Inc.; Microsoft Corporation; National Basketball Association; National Football League; National Geographic Society; National Hockey League; Public Broadcasting Service; Phi Beta Kappa Society; Promontory Financial Group; and U.S. Soccer Federation.
Position Paper Concerning Potential Amendments
Assist the client in preparation of a position paper concerning potential amendments to anti-circumvention provisions of Section 1201 of the Digital Millennium Copyright Act and in preparation of comments to the Copyright Office on proposed exemptions to Section 1201.
Professional Sports Franchises in IRS Audits
Currently representing approximately a dozen professional sports franchises in IRS audits on issues including the Section 199 deduction, amortization of player bonuses, treatment of fringe benefits, and taxation of stadium operations.
Representation of Former President of the Asian Football Confederation in FIFA-Related Arbitration
Representation of Mohamed Bin Hammam, former president of the Asian Football Confederation, in his successful challenge to his FIFA-ordered lifetime ban from football (soccer) before the Court of Arbitration for Sport. Bin Hammam had been banned for alleged vote-buying on the eve of the election for FIFA’s Presidency, in which he was the only challenger to the re-election of Sepp Blatter. In July 2012, the three-judge panel found insufficient evidence and annulled the ban.
NFL on DirecTV Deal
Representation of the National Football League in connection with its deal to extend DirecTV's exclusive rights to carry NFL Sunday Ticket in a multi-year agreement.
Samsung in Defeating Right of Publicity Action
Represented Samsung in defeating right of publicity action brought by Olympic athletes.
San Francisco 49ers in Antitrust Challenge to Ticket Policies
Defending 49ers in class action antitrust challenge to its policies governing the printing of pdf copies of game tickets (Kazemzadeh v. San Francisco 49ers).
Sports Leagues on Broadband Issues
Regularly advise the NFL on a range of broadband issues, from net neutrality to online privacy to compulsory copyright, and briefed the NBA on how the media landscape is changing, and how broadband is both a compliment and a threat to existing models.
State Department of Taxation Audits of Clubs Dropped
Persuaded a state Department of Taxation to reverse its long-held, industry-wide position regarding sports clubs’ apportionment methodologies and to consequently drop 14 separate club audits.
State Taxation of Visiting Players and Teams
Lobbying state governments and developing league-wide policies regarding the state taxation of visiting players and teams in almost every state in the country.
Tax Audits for Sports Leagues and Affiliates
Secured “no change” letters in income tax audits of two sports leagues and three leagues’ for-profit affiliates (five separate audits).
Tax Counseling Regarding Numerous Franchise Sales
Deal structuring and related counseling regarding numerous franchise sales, including Chris Hansen in his efforts to acquire the Sacramento Kings or another NBA franchise with a view towards a relocation to Seattle; Chris Cohan’s sale of the Golden State Warriors; the NHL’s purchase and sale of the Phoenix Coyotes; Major League Baseball’s relocation and sale of the Montreal Expos; Fenway Sports Group’s purchase of a 50 percent interest in Roush Racing; the USTA’s acquisition of the Western & Southern Financial Group Masters tournament; and John Henry’s sale of the Florida Marlins and purchase (as lead investor) of the Boston Red Sox.
Tax-Efficient Compensation for Executives and Athletes
Developing and drafting tax-efficient compensation packages for both front-office executives and athletes. Settled an Appeals case regarding a franchise owner’s built-in gain upon the sale of his franchise, with the taxpayer receiving a multi-million dollar refund from the government.
Sports Stadium Repair Project
The National Football League in its contributions to the repair and renovation of the Superdome in New Orleans in the wake of Hurricane Katrina.
Lease Arrangements for Baseball Stadium in U.S. Capital
D.C. Sports and Entertainment Commission in connection with the construction and financing of, and lease arrangements for, a new, state-of-the-art Major League Baseball stadium located in Washington, DC.
Stadium Construction and Renovation Projects
The National Football League in the structuring and negotiation of League “G-3” loans to support construction of new or renovated stadiums for the Chicago Bears, Dallas Cowboys, Denver Broncos, Detroit Lions, Indianapolis Colts, New England Patriots, Philadelphia Eagles, and Seattle Seahawks, and, most recently, in the financing of the new stadium for the New York Jets and Giants and League approvals of the first-of-its-kind joint venture relating to the New Meadowlands Stadium.
NFL Licensing and Other Transactions
Advised the National Football League in numerous licensing and other transactions.
Turner Broadcasting System, Inc. in CBS Sports and NCAA Matters
Turner Broadcasting System, Inc. in the creation of its joint venture with CBS Sports and the venture’s 14-year television and new media rights agreement with the NCAA to present the Division I Men's Basketball Championship.
USTA in ESPN Broadcast Deal
Advised the United States Tennis Association Incorporated and ESPN, Inc. on an 11-year broadcast deal regarding telecasting the entire US Open exclusively on ESPN networks starting in 2015.
Washington v. National Football League
Dismissing a purported class action antitrust suit brought by retired players alleging a conspiracy to restrain a market for the sale of their images and likenesses.
Smart Game Venues and Equipment
We represented a major sports league in acquisition and utilization of smart technology for game venues and game equipment.
Apparel Company Wearable Technology
We represented an apparel company in connection with its joint venture with a technology company related to the creation and distribution of wearable technology.
Washington Nationals General Counsel Joins Covington
May 11, 2020
WASHINGTON—Damon Jones, who most recently served as Senior Vice President & General Counsel of the Washington Nationals Major League Baseball franchise, has joined Covington’s Sports Practice in the Washington office. Mr. Jones has more than 20 years of experience advising clients in sports, media, and entertainment matters. During his nearly 13 years with the ...
May 1, 2020, Covington Alert
In the coming weeks many of England’s football clubs are likely to vote on whether to suspend or remove the regulatory framework that football authorities in England and Europe have developed over the past decade to prevent the financial mismanagement of clubs and protect the sporting integrity of competition.
April 6, 2020, Covington Alert
Following a meeting of representatives from all English Premier League (EPL) clubs Friday April 3, it was announced that EPL fixtures were postponed indefinitely and would not be returning in May, as stated previously. The EPL announced that the 2019/20 football season would only resume when “it was safe and appropriate” to do so, subject to Government agreement ...
May 2020
As the legal, regulatory, and commercial implications of coronavirus COVID-19 continue to evolve, our lawyers and advisors are helping clients navigate the complex considerations that companies around the world are facing and develop plans and strategies in response. Reach out to our COVID-19 task force at COVID19@cov.com. Below is a compendium of resources ...
January 31, 2020
LOS ANGELES—The Los Angeles Business Journal recognized Neema Sahni in its 2020 list of the most influential minority lawyers in Los Angeles. The list recognizes lawyers who are particularly impactful, maintain the highest professional and ethical standards, and contribute to the Los Angeles business and legal community. In Ms. Sahni's profile, the Business ...
January 27, 2020
LOS ANGELES—Sports Business Journal has named Covington partner Neema Sahni to its 2020 40 Under 40 list. The honor recognizes 40 executives under the age of 40 who are excelling in their field of sports business and “represent fresh and innovative approaches across all sectors of the industry.” Ms. Sahni is a litigation partner with deep media industry ...
Paul Tagliabue Elected to Pro Football Hall of Fame
January 16, 2020
WASHINGTON—Covington is pleased to announce that former NFL Commissioner and longtime Covington senior counsel Paul Tagliabue has been elected to the Pro Football Hall of Fame. During Mr. Tagliabue’s tenure as Commissioner between 1989 and 2006, the League expanded from 28 to 32 teams; developed innovative models for player free agency and on-field competitive ...
Seven Covington Lawyers Named Law360 MVPs
November 22, 2019
WASHINGTON—Law360 has named seven Covington lawyers as MVPs, third most among all firms, in their respective practice areas. The awards single out lawyers from across numerous practice areas based on their success in high-stakes litigation, complex global matters, and record-breaking deals. The Covington lawyers recognized as Law360 MVPs are: Thomas ...
February 21, 2019
WASHINGTON—Covington advised the Chicago Cubs and Northside Entertainment Holdings, LLC in the formation of a joint venture with Sinclair Broadcast Group that will own and operate Marquee Sports Network, a regional sports network based in Chicago. Marquee Sports Network will be the exclusive network of the Chicago Cubs beginning with the 2020 Major League ...
Covington Named One of Law360's 2018 “Firms of the Year”
January 14, 2019
WASHINGTON—Law360 has named Covington as one of its 2018 “Firms of the Year” for earning seven Practice Group of the Year awards. The Covington practices named 2018 Practice Groups of the Year are: Banking Government Contracts Insurance International Trade Product Liability Sports White Collar "We have followed a ...
May 9, 2018
LOS ANGELES—Covington partners Carolyn Kubota, Robyn Polashuk, and Sonya Winner have been named to the Daily Journal’s 2018 “Top 100 Women Lawyers” list, recognizing the “top women lawyers in California.” Based in the firm’s Los Angeles office, Ms. Kubota is a member of the American College of Trial Lawyers and has served as lead counsel on high-profile ...
March 5, 2018
BEIJING—China Business Law Journal has recognized Covington as one of the top international law firms in the Entertainment & Sports category. Covington’s Entertainment and Media practice in China has advised nearly every major Hollywood studio and many of the leading independents on their China activities and has been involved in some of the most significant ...
Covington Earns Five “Practice Group of the Year” Awards
February 6, 2018
WASHINGTON—Law360 has named five Covington practice groups among its “2017 Practice Groups of the Year.” The practice groups recognized by Law360 are as follows: Government Contracts International Trade Product Liability Sports White Collar
Sports Group Of The Year: Covington & Burling
February 5, 2018, Law360
Covington was named a 2017 Sports Practice Group of the Year by Law360. According to Ben Block, one of the most rewarding aspects of the sports group is the opportunity to work with repeat clients. "But," he adds, "every year and every day is a new, different, and exciting challenge." Commenting on the Tax Court victory on behalf of the Boston Bruins in a ...
Four Covington Partners Named Law360 MVPs
December 20, 2017
WASHINGTON—Law360 has named four Covington partners as MVPs in their respective practice areas. The awards single out lawyers from across numerous practice areas based on their success in high-stakes litigation, complex global matters, and record-breaking deals. The Covington lawyers recognized as Law360 MVPs are: Ray Biagini, Government Contracts. Mr. ...
MVP: Covington's Jeremy Spector
December 15, 2017, Law360
Jeremy Spector was named a 2017 Tax MVP by Law360. The publication emphasizes his unique practice which focuses on representing the sports industry, and highlights his "precedent-setting" victory on behalf of the Boston Bruins at the U.S. Tax Court.
Covington Secures Tax Court Victory for Boston Bruins
July 5, 2017
WASHINGTON—The U.S. Tax Court ruled in favor of Covington’s client the Boston Bruins in a dispute with the IRS over away-game meal costs. The IRS had argued that the Bruins were entitled to deduct only 50 percent of the costs of meals that the club served to its players and other employees during road trips. The Tax Court declined to accept this view and ...
The Evolution of Intellectual Property As a Key Value Driver in Sports
April 14, 2017, 6th Annual NYU Sports Law Colloquium
GDPR Planning and Preparation Conference for Employers
March 30, 2017, Business Forums International Ltd.
Leading M&A Lawyer Joins Covington
February 28, 2017
NEW YORK—Tom Kuhn has joined Covington’s Mergers and Acquisitions practice, and will focus on media and technology transactions. He will be based in the firm’s New York office. Mr. Kuhn is a seasoned M&A deal maker, with experience both as a lawyer and as a banker. He also advises on corporate governance matters and provides strategic counseling. He has ...
February 27, 2017
WASHINGTON—Law360 has named four Covington practice groups among its “Practice Groups of the Year.” The practice groups recognized by Law360 are as follows: International Trade Life Sciences Product Liability Sports
Sports Group Of The Year: Covington & Burling
February 7, 2017, Law360
Law360 selected Covington’s Sports practice as a “Practice Group of the Year,” profiling the team’s successful representation of the U.S. Olympic Committee (USOC) in an antitrust challenge over its advertising restrictions, involvement in significant deals, and continued representation of the National Football League. Derek Ludwin, commenting on the USOC case, ...
Six Covington Lawyers Named Law360 MVPs
January 3, 2017
WASHINGTON—Law360 has named six Covington lawyers as MVPs in their respective practice areas. The awards single out lawyers from across various practice areas based on their “success in high-stakes litigation, complex global matters, and record-breaking deals.” The Covington lawyers recognized as Law360 MVPs are: Shara Aranoff, International Trade. Ms. ...
Sports MVP: Covington & Burling's Derek Ludwin
December 21, 2016, Law360
Law360 selected Derek Ludwin as a 2016 Sports MVP and profiled his work over the past year, including his defense of the U.S. Olympic Committee against an antitrust challenge to its longtime ban on on-field advertising brought by Olympic runner Nick Symmonds through his company, Run Gum. “This is an organization that a lot of us grew up following. It’s the ...
December 5, 2016
WASHINGTON—SportsBusiness Journal has named Doug Gibson and Gregg Levy to its list of the “50 Most Influential People in Sports Business.” Mr. Gibson and Mr. Levy are two of only four lawyers in private practice on the list, which also includes league commissioners and team owners, broadcast industry and sponsor company CEOs, and other high-profile executives in ...
September 28, 2016, Covington Alert
Provisions of a new French law, adopted on September 28, 2016, will loosen France’s rules around videogaming contests in France, and lay down new labor regulations for professional gamers. For now, clients ought to exercise significant caution before arranging French eSports contests or entering into contracts with professional gamers in France. Even after the ...
June 27, 2016
WASHINGTON—SportsBusiness Journal has named Covington partners Doug Gibson, Gregg Levy, Bruce Wilson, and Peter Zern to the highest tier in its 2016 “Power Players: Outside Counsel” rankings. Included in the SportsBusiness Journal’s “Chairman’s Club,” the Covington team is recognized in the “dominant tier in sports law” because of “a long history in the space” ...
Covington Receives Top Rankings from Chambers USA
June 7, 2016
WASHINGTON—Covington has again received top rankings from Chambers USA, with 60 practice rankings and 120 individual rankings for lawyers in the publication’s 2016 edition. The legal guide identifies leading lawyers and law firm practices based on interviews conducted by Chambers’ researchers with thousands of lawyers and their clients. The firm was ranked in ...
The Art of Deal-Making in Sports and Entertainment
May 2016, North American South Asian Bar Association Annual Convention
David Pinsky Named Law360 'Rising Star'
April 21, 2016
New York — Law360 has named Covington international arbitration partner David Pinsky a “Rising Star.” This annual recognition honors top attorneys under the age of 40 “whose legal accomplishments belie their age.” Law360 recognized how Mr. Pinsky, who leads Covington’s arbitration group’s Russia and Eurasia initiative, helped develop the firm’s Russia-focused ...
April 20, 2016
LOS ANGELES — Covington partners Emily Henn, Robyn Polashuk and Sonya Winner have been named to the Daily Journal’s annual list of “Top Women Lawyers” in California. The list recognizes 100 lawyers who “try complex commercial disputes and put together industry-transforming deals.” Ms. Henn, based in the firm’s Silicon Valley office, co-chairs the firm’s Class ...
April 12, 2016
NEW YORK — Covington advised Turner Sports on the extension of its rights to distribute the NCAA men’s basketball tournament via a partnership with CBS. With the extension in place, Turner and CBS will hold the media rights for “March Madness” through 2032. The new agreement allows the networks to distribute the tournament games across a wide range of their ...
February 3, 2016
WASHINGTON, DC — Covington assisted the National Football League in negotiating its partnership with CBS and NBC to produce and televise "Thursday Night Football" for the 2016 and 2017 seasons. In addition to continuing its Thursday Night Football partnership with CBS, the NFL is adding NBC as a partner, with both networks set to air five Thursday Night Football ...
January 28, 2016
WASHINGTON, DC - Law360 has named six Covington practice groups among its “Practice Groups of the Year.” The practice groups recognized by Law360 are as follows: Government Contracts Insurance International Trade Life Sciences Product Liability Sports
January 27, 2016
WASHINGTON, DC - Covington’s Paul Tagliabue has been appointed to the Knight Commission on Intercollegiate Athletics. Arne Duncan, former U.S. Secretary of Education, and Anna Spangler Nelson, a member of the University of North Carolina Board of Governors, were also named to the commission. The Knight Commission has played an influential and independent role ...
December 22, 2015, Sports Business Daily
Doug Gibson is quoted in this Sports Business Daily article profiling high-ranking sports executives and asking their thoughts on the biggest storylines of 2015. Gibson, who highlights the “continuing proliferation of content distributed solely over-the-top and the continuing growth, particularly within millennials, of ‘cord-cutters’ and ‘cord-nevers,” points to ...
January 27, 2015
WASHINGTON, DC, January 27, 2015 — Covington was named one of the top 2014 “Media and Entertainment Practice Groups of the Year” by Law360.Law360 highlighted the practice for its involvement in “the most-talked-about sports media rights deals last year,” including the NFL's Sunday Ticket agreement with DirecTV, Steve Ballmer’s bid for the Los Angeles Clippers, ...
Conversations: Jeremy Spector
January 27, 2015, Tax Notes
Covington's Jeremy Spector is profiled in this article on his sports tax practice: "Jeremy Spector is a different sports fan than most — and with good reason. Spector, 44, an attorney with Covington & Burling LLP in Washington, is the lead tax counsel for Major League Baseball, the National Football League, the National Basketball Association, the National ...
December 22, 2014
WASHINGTON, December 22, 2014 — The Global Competition Review (GCR) has named Covington & Burling to its Global Elite, a list of the top 20 competition practices worldwide, ranking it among the top practices in both Brussels and Washington, D.C. Each year, GCR undertakes extensive analysis of competition law groups in 50 jurisdictions around the world. In ...
Covington’s Gibson Named Law360 MVP
11/24/2014
WASHINGTON, DC, November 24, 2014 — Law360 named Covington & Burling partner Doug Gibson a “most valuable player” in media and entertainment law. Law360’s “MVP of the Year” awards recognize lawyers who have had successes in record-breaking deals, high-stakes litigation, and complex global matters in the past year. In a profile on Mr. Gibson, Law360 cited his ...
Media & Entertainment MVP: Covington's Doug Gibson
November 21, 2014, Law360
Covington's Doug Gibon was named a Law360 MVP: "Covington & Burling LLP partner Doug Gibson’s name appears on many high-profile sports industry deals, including this summer’s negotiation of former Microsoft Corp. CEO Steve Ballmer’s $2 billion purchase of the Los Angeles Clippers and the National Football League’s extension on DirecTV’s rights for NFL Sunday ...
October 6, 2014, The American Lawyer
Covington is featured in this article regarding the firm advising the National Basketball Association on a media rights deals with Walt Disney Co. and Time Warner Inc.’s Turner Broadcasting System. "The agreement comes on the heels of the NFL's renewal of its Sunday Ticket game package with DirecTV last week. Covington counseled its longtime client the NFL on ...
Covington Advises NFL on DirecTV Deal
10/03/2014
WASHINGTON, DC, October 3, 2014 — Covington & Burling represented the National Football League in connection with its recently announced deal to extend DirecTV's exclusive rights to carry NFL Sunday Ticket in a multi-year agreement. The agreement also extends DirecTV’s rights to stream NFL Sunday Ticket, a package that enables subscribers to view out-of-market ...
Covington Receives Top Tier Nods in Legal 500 U.S.
June 26, 2014
WASHINGTON, DC, June 26, 2014 — The Legal 500 U.S. has ranked Covington & Burling in its top tier in eight practice areas and recognized 23 individual attorneys as “Leading Lawyers” in the directory’s 2014 edition. Additionally, Legal 500 “recommended” 42 Covington practice areas and 153 Covington lawyers. The eight Covington practices given the top tier ranking ...
Covington Advises Steve Ballmer on Clippers Purchase
5/30/2014
WASHINGTON, DC, May 30, 2014 — Covington & Burling advised Steve Ballmer on his agreement to purchase the Los Angeles Clippers from The Sterling Family Trust for $2 billion. "I will be honored to have my name submitted to the NBA board of governors for approval as the next owner of the Los Angeles Clippers. I love basketball," Ballmer said in a statement. "And ...
May 30, 2014, Law360 - 5 Must-Know Facts About Ballmer's $2B Clippers Bid
Covington advised Steve Ballmer on his agreement to purchase the Los Angeles Clippers from The Sterling Family Trust for $2 billion. The firm is mentioned in the above articles regarding the deal. Law360 writes, "Steve Ballmer is represented in the latest deal by a Covington & Burling LLP team led by Doug Gibson, Scott Roades and Peter Zern, including Rob ...
May 16, 2014
WASHINGTON, DC, May 16, 2014 — Covington & Burling’s Paul Tagliabue was recognized by Up2Us with its Legacy Award for his commitment to helping the sports-based youth development organization get off the ground. Mr. Tagliabue helped the non-profit group based in New York secure nonprofit tax status from the IRS in 2010, and continues to support Up2Us with pro ...
Covington Advises USTA in ESPN Broadcast Deal
May 17, 2013
WASHINGTON, DC, May 17, 2013 — The United States Tennis Association Incorporated and ESPN, Inc. announced a new 11-year broadcast deal Thursday that calls for telecasting the entire US Open exclusively on ESPN networks starting in 2015. Covington & Burling advised the USTA on the transaction. Under the agreement, ESPN will become the exclusive domestic ...
11/7/2012
WASHINGTON, DC, November 7, 2012 — Covington & Burling received 97 first-tier practice rankings in the 2013 “Best Law Firms” survey by U.S. News-Best Lawyers, placing Covington among the top 10 firms nationwide. Covington was also named “Law Firm of the Year” in both FDA Law and Corporate Compliance Law. The honor is presented to one law firm in each of the ...
Seven Covington Lawyers Named ‘2013 Lawyer of the Year’
September 13, 2012
WASHINGTON, DC, September 13, 2012 — Best Lawyers in America named seven Covington & Burling lawyers today as “2013 Lawyer of the Year” in their respective practice areas and cities. The selected lawyers received strong ratings from their peers for their “abilities, professionalism and integrity,” in the publication’s annual survey. Best Lawyers recognizes only ...
August 27, 2012
WASHINGTON, DC, August 27, 2012 — Covington & Burling LLP lawyers received 196 individual mentions in 57 areas of law in the 2013 edition of The Best Lawyers in America. This annual compilation of top U.S. lawyers is based on peer-review surveys and is used as a referral guide in the legal profession. The Covington lawyers recognized are as ...
Covington Lawyers Recognized by D.C. Super Lawyers
May 2, 2012
WASHINGTON, DC, May 2, 2012 — D.C. Super Lawyers selected 64 Covington & Burling lawyers for its 2012 list of top legal talent. Super Lawyers selects no more than five percent of the total lawyers who practice in Washington based on peer review and the publication’s independent research. Deborah Garza and Robert Long have been named among the “Top 100” for ...
Covington Announces Six New Counsel
April 16, 2012
WASHINGTON, DC, April 16, 2012 — Covington & Burling is pleased to announce the promotion of one lawyer to of counsel and five lawyers to special counsel, effective April 1, 2012. Wendy Feng (San Francisco), the new of counsel, represents policyholders in insurance coverage cases in state and federal courts. She provides strategic claims-related advice and has ...
April 13, 2012
WASHINGTON, DC, April 13, 2012 — Covington & Burling advised Tom Benson, the longtime owner of the New Orleans Saints, in his purchase of the New Orleans Hornets for an undisclosed sum. The purchase and related agreements were finalized this week. Closing is expected before the end of June. “I am very grateful to Bruce Wilson and the Covington team,” Mr. ...
March 13, 2012
WASHINGTON, DC, March 13, 2012 — Street & Smith’s SportsBusiness Journal has named Covington & Burling LLP partner Peter Zern a recipient of its “Forty Under 40” award. The annual list honors the best and brightest executives in the sports business industry under the age of 40, and is described by the publication as the most coveted award in sports business. ...
Covington Advises NFL on Major Network TV Deal
December 15, 2011
WASHINGTON, DC, December 15, 2011 — Covington advised the National Football League in negotiating nine-year extensions of its Sunday broadcast television packages with CBS, FOX and NBC networks. The NFL owners voted to approve the package of TV deals with FOX, CBS and NBC on Wednesday. The new agreements, announced yesterday, run through the 2022 season, and ...
Covington Helps BIG EAST Go West
December 7, 2011
WASHINGTON, DC, December 7, 2011 — The BIG EAST Conference announced today that it has reached an agreement for the admission of five new members. Covington & Burling represented the BIG EAST in its negotiations with each of the five schools. Under the agreements, University of Central Florida, University of Houston and Southern Methodist University will begin ...
November 30, 2011
WASHINGTON, DC, November 30, 2011 — Washingtonian magazine has named 34 Covington & Burling attorneys as “Best Lawyers” in its December issue. The biennial list, compiled by the magazine’s editorial staff, identifies leading lawyers in the Washington area. Of the approximately 800 “Best Lawyers” identified in the issue, Washingtonian included profiles of 31 ...
U.S. News-Best Lawyers Awards Covington ‘Law Firm of the Year’ in FDA Law and 82 First-Tier Practice Rankings
November 1, 2011
WASHINGTON, DC, November 1, 2011 — For the second consecutive year, U.S. News-Best Lawyers awarded Covington & Burling the most first-tier practice rankings for Washington, DC in the “Best Law Firms” survey. The 2011-12 survey also awarded the firm 82 first-tier practice rankings, placing Covington among the top 20 firms nationwide. Additionally, U.S. ...
Eight Covington Lawyers Named ‘2012 Lawyer of the Year’
October 5, 2011
WASHINGTON, DC, October 5, 2011 — Best Lawyers named eight Covington & Burling lawyers as the “2012 Lawyer of the Year” in their respective practice areas and cities. According to Best Lawyers, the selected lawyers have received particularly strong ratings in the Best Lawyers' survey by earning a high level of respect among their peers for their “abilities, ...
Covington Advises NFL in its Eight-Year Extension of Monday Night Football Rights with ESPN
September 9, 2011
WASHINGTON, DC, September 9, 2011 — The National Football League has announced that it has entered into a new eight-year agreement with ESPN providing for Monday Night Football, the most successful series in sports media history, to remain on ESPN through the 2021 NFL season. The broad multiplatform agreement, which begins in 2014, includes eight full seasons of ...
September 7, 2011
WASHINGTON, DC, September 7, 2011 — Covington & Burling LLP lawyers received 184 individual mentions in 56 areas of law in the 2012 edition of The Best Lawyers in America. This annual compilation of top US lawyers is based on peer-review surveys and is used as a referral guide in the legal profession. The Covington lawyers recognized are as follows: ...
Covington Advises UFC on Fox Deal
August 22, 2011
WASHINGTON, DC, August 22, 2011 — Zuffa LLC, parent company of the Ultimate Fighting Championship, and Fox have agreed to a seven-year broadcast deal that will distribute live and taped mixed martial arts programming across the broadcast network's multiple television platforms beginning in January 2012. Covington & Burling LLP advised UFC on the transaction. The ...
June 10, 2011
WASHINGTON, DC, June 10, 2011 — Covington & Burling LLP received 123 individual mentions and 45 practice mentions in Chambers USA 2011. The guidebook, which ranks lawyers by state and national practice area, is designed to identify the most skilled legal practitioners based on the qualities most valued by clients. Here are the Covington lawyers and practices ...
Covington Advises IMG College in Launch of TV Network for The University of Texas at Austin
January 24, 2011
WASHINGTON, DC, January 24, 2011 — The University of Texas at Austin, ESPN and UT Athletics' multimedia rights partner IMG College have announced a 20-year agreement to create what soon will be the nation's largest 24-hour television network dedicated to covering a university's intercollegiate athletics, music, cultural arts and academic programs. Covington ...
12/16/2010
LONDON, December 16, 2010 — Covington & Burling LLP has been named the "Sports, Media & Entertainment Team of the Year 2010" by Intellectual Property Magazine in recognition of the firm’s contribution to promoting and protecting the sports and entertainment-related IP rights of its clients. The award recognises Covington’s work over the past year, which has ...
Four Covington Lawyers Named ‘2011 Lawyer of the Year’
November 16, 2010
WASHINGTON, DC, November 16, 2010 — Four Covington & Burling LLP lawyers have been recognized as the "2011 Lawyer of the Year" in their respective practice areas by The Best Lawyers in America. Only a single lawyer in each specialty in each community is honored. The Covington lawyers recognized for this honor are: Jonathan Blake, Washington Communications ...
September 23, 2010
BEIJING, September 23, 2010 — A range of attendees from the media, sports, and entertainment industries were on hand as Covington & Burling LLP’s Beijing office co-hosted “The Big Event: The New Technologies of Media and Sports” symposium. The half-day event, held on September 21, focused on the use of cutting-edge production, broadcasting, exhibition, and home ...
Covington Receives First-Tier Practice Nods in Inaugural “Best Law Firms” Rankings by U.S. News and Best Lawyers
September 17, 2010
WASHINGTON, DC, September 17, 2010 — Covington & Burling LLP received 33 first-tier practice rankings in the 2010 “Best Law Firms” survey by U.S. News Media Group and Best Lawyers. Covington’s first-tier national rankings place it among the top 10 firms nationwide and at the top of the first-tier rankings for Washington, DC. The inaugural rankings presented in ...
September 8, 2010
WASHINGTON, DC, September 8, 2010 — Covington & Burling LLP partner Peter Zern has been named to Washington Business Journal’s “40 Under 40.” The list recognizes the Washington region's brightest young business leaders based on demonstrated business success. At Covington, Mr. Zern advises many of the firm’s sports clients on media transactions, finance, and ...
August 6, 2010
WASHINGTON, DC, August 6, 2010 — Covington & Burling LLP received 138 individual mentions in 40 areas of law in the 2011 edition of The Best Lawyers in America. This annual compilation of top US lawyers is based on peer-review surveys and is used as a referral guide in the legal profession. The Covington lawyers recognized are as follows: Administrative: ...
July 15, 2010
WASHINGTON, DC, July 15, 2010 — Covington & Burling LLP is pleased to announce the signing of a Purchase Agreement for the sale of the Golden State Warriors, the NBA franchise based in Oakland, California, to an investor group led by Kleiner Perkins Caufield & Byers Managing Partner Joe Lacob and Mandalay Entertainment Group Chairman Peter Guber. The sale price ...
June 16, 2010
WASHINGTON, DC, June 16, 2010 — Covington & Burling LLP received 112 individual mentions and 44 practice mentions in Chambers USA 2010. The guidebook, which ranks lawyers by state and national practice area, is designed to identify the most skilled legal practitioners based on the qualities most valued by clients. Here are the Covington lawyers and practices ...
April 23, 2010
WASHINGTON, DC, April 23, 2010 — The NCAA has announced a new 14-year television and new media rights agreement with CBS Sports and Turner Broadcasting System, Inc., to present the Division I Men's Basketball Championship beginning in 2011 through 2024 for total rights fees of approximately $10.8 billion. As part of the agreement, all games will be shown live ...
August 7, 2009
WASHINGTON, DC, August 7, 2009 — Covington & Burling LLP received 131 individual mentions in 38 areas of law in the 2010 edition of The Best Lawyers in America. This annual compilation of top US lawyers is based on peer-review surveys and is used as a referral guide in the legal profession. The Covington lawyers recognized are as follows: Administrative: ...
June 12, 2009
WASHINGTON, DC, June 12, 2009 — Covington & Burling LLP received 100 individual mentions and 40 practice mentions in Chambers USA 2009. The guidebook, which ranks lawyers by state and national practice area, is designed to identify the most skilled legal practitioners based on the qualities most valued by clients. Here are the Covington lawyers and practices ...
6/09/2009
LONDON, June 9, 2009 — An enhanced version of the world’s first data protection standard for athletes took effect on June 1, 2009. The International Standard for the Protection of Privacy and Personal Information took effect on January 1, 2009, and an enhanced version was unanimously approved in early May 2009 by the Executive Committee of the World Anti-Doping ...
3/27/2009
WASHINGTON, DC, March 27, 2009 — For the second straight year, Covington & Burling LLP partner Peter Zern has been named to Street & Smith’s SportsBusiness Journal’s “Forty Under 40.” The 10th annual list honors the best and brightest executives in the sports business industry under the age of 40, and is described by the publication as the most coveted award in ...
September 29, 2008
WASHINGTON, DC, September 29, 2008 — Covington & Burling LLP received 124 individual mentions in 40 areas of law in the 2009 edition of The Best Lawyers in America. This annual compilation of top US lawyers is based on peer-review surveys and is used as a referral guide in the legal profession. The Covington lawyers recognized are as follows: Administrative: ...
5/12/2008
WASHINGTON, DC, May 12, 2008 — The USTA, ESPN and Tennis Channel today announced a groundbreaking six-year television and multi-platform partnership creating a summer-long “Open Season” for tennis featuring more than 400 national television hours for the US Open and the Olympus US Open Series. Covington & Burling LLP advised the USTA on the ...
3/3/2008
WASHINGTON, DC, March 3, 2008 — Covington & Burling LLP partner Peter Zern has been named to Street & Smith’s SportsBusiness Journal’s “Forty Under 40” Class of 2008, described by the publication as the most coveted award in sports business. The annual list, which first appeared in 1999, honors the best and brightest executives in the sports business industry ...
11/30/2007
WASHINGTON, DC, November 30, 2007 — Nineteen Covington & Burling LLP attorneys are recognized as “Top Lawyers” in the December 2007 issue of Washingtonian magazine. The list, compiled by the magazine’s editorial staff based on peer recommendations, identifies leading lawyers in the Greater Washington area. Of the “Top Lawyers,” Washingtonian identified 30 as the ...
10/10/2007
WASHINGTON, DC, October 10, 2007 — A court-appointed special master ruled yesterday in favor of the Atlanta Falcons and the NFL Management Council in connection with the Falcons’ attempt to recover more than $19 million in bonus money paid to now-suspended quarterback Michael Vick. Special Master Stephen B. Burbank, professor at the University of Pennsylvania ...
Covington Elects Six New Partners
10/1/2007
WASHINGTON, DC, October 1, 2007 — Covington & Burling LLP announced that six of its associates have been elected to the firm’s partnership, effective today. Stuart Stock, chair of the firm’s management committee, commented, “These six outstanding men and women are representative of Covington’s depth and excellence. We are pleased to welcome them to our ...
September 6, 2007
WASHINGTON, DC, September 6, 2007 — Covington & Burling LLP received 115 individual mentions in 38 areas of law in the 2008 edition of The Best Lawyers in America. This annual compilation of top US lawyers is based on peer-review surveys and is used as a referral guide in the legal profession. The recipients are as follows: Administrative: E. Edward Bruce and ...
June 18, 2007
WASHINGTON, DC, June 18, 2007 — Covington & Burling LLP received 44 practice mentions and 74 individual mentions in the newly released 2007 Chambers USA guidebook. The 2007 edition of Chambers USA attempts to identify the most skilled legal practitioners throughout the country based on the qualities most valued by clients. Covington attorneys have been ...
March 8, 2007
WASHINGTON, DC, March 8, 2007 — Major League Baseball announced the launch of the MLB Channel today in connection with its seven-year agreement with DIRECTV to carry the MLB EXTRA INNINGS subscription package of out-of-market games. DIRECTV will be a minority partner in the MLB Channel, and will work with MLB to develop the new network. Scheduled to launch in ...
Covington Advises Barclays on Naming Rights Deal
January 19, 2007
WASHINGTON, DC, January 19, 2007 — Barclays has announced that it will pay an undisclosed amount for naming rights to the new Barclays Center located in Brooklyn, New York for a term of 20 years. Covington & Burling LLP advised Barclays on the transaction.The new Barclays Center is the core feature of the Frank Gehry designed $4 billion Atlantic Yards ...
June 5, 2006
WASHINGTON, DC, June 5, 2006 - Fifty Covington & Burling lawyers practicing in 27 fields and in each of the firm's US offices were recognized as "leaders in their field" in this year's edition of Chambers USA - America's Leading Business Lawyers. The 2006 edition of Chambers USA, which was released June 2, 2006, attempts to identify the most skilled legal ...
May 25, 2006
LONDON, May 25, 2006 - Kangaroo Media Inc. and Formula One Management Limited announced yesterday that they have entered into a six-year licence agreement to provide fans at all Formula OneTM events with access to live race video, audio and data on Kangaroo Media's unique Kangaroo TVTM hand-held device. Covington & Burling's team that advised Kangaroo Media was ...
Covington & Burling Announces Ten New Partners
October 3, 2005
WASHINGTON, D.C., October 3, 2005 - Covington & Burling announced the election of ten new partners, effective October 1. Stuart Stock, chair of the firm's management committee, commented: "These exceptional lawyers reflect the strength, excellence and diversity of the firm, and the continuing growth of our practices across the firm." Covington's newest partners ...
September 13, 2005
WASHINGTON, D.C., September 13, 2005 - Forty-six Covington & Burling lawyers practicing in 27 fields were recognized in the 2006 edition of The Best Lawyers in America. The number of Covington lawyers listed increased by over 40% from the last edition. This biennial compilation of top U.S. lawyers is based on peer-review surveys and is used as a referral guide ...
Chambers USA Recognizes 29 Covington Lawyers
May 27, 2005
Washington, D.C., June 28, 2005 - Twenty-nine Covington & Burling lawyers practicing in fourteen fields and in each of the firm's U.S. offices were recognized as "leaders in their field" in this year's edition of Chambers USA - America's Leading Business Lawyers. The 2005 edition of Chambers USA, which was released online earlier today, attempts to identify the ...
Covington Advises NFL With Long-Term Television Packages
April 19, 2005
Negotiations Culminate in NBC Return to NFL Broadcaster Lineup; Monday Night Football Moving to ESPN with Earlier Kickoff; Sunday Afternoon Partners CBS and FOX Renewing Agreements Washington, DC, April 19, 2005 -- A team of Covington & Burling lawyers advised the NFL in the strategic planning, development, negotiation and implementation of the League's ...
February 24, 2005
WASHINGTON, D.C., February 24, 2005 - The California Court of Appeal for the Second Appellate District entered an important ruling yesterday in favor of Covington & Burling's client, the National Football League, in a $1.2 billion lawsuit brought by the Oakland Raiders. Yesterday's ruling reinstated the verdict of a Superior Court jury that, after 11 weeks of ...
Covington Advises D.C. Sports & Entertainment Commission in an Agreement to Bring Major League Baseball to Washington
September 29, 2004
WASHINGTON, D.C., September 29, 2004 - Covington & Burling represented the D.C. Sports & Entertainment Commission in its agreement announced this afternoon to relocate Major League Baseball's Montreal Expos to Washington. The D.C. Sports & Entertainment Commission, together with the Government of the District of Columbia, today entered into a baseball stadium ...
The Globalization of Sports
2004, DePaul University Journal of Sports Law Annual Winter Symposium
Covington & Burling Announces Eight New Partners
October 3, 2002
October 3, 2002 - WASHINGTON, D.C. - Covington & Burling announced that eight attorneys have been elected to the partnership, effective October 1, 2002. New partners in Covington's Litigation Practice include Georgia Kazakis and Edward H. Rippey. Michael S. Labson is a new partner in the firm's Food and Drug and Life Sciences Practices. Erin M. Egan and Jennifer ...
- Sports Business Journal named Neema Sahni to its 40 Under 40 list (2020).
- China Business Law Journal, "Top Entertainment & Sports Firms" (2018)
- SportsBusiness Journal named Doug Gibson, Gregg Levy, Bruce Wilson, and Peter Zern to the highest tier, “Chairman’s Club,” in its “Power Players: Outside Counsel” rankings (2016).
- Law360, Sports Group of the Year (2015, 2017-2018)
- Chambers USA: America’s Leading Business Lawyers: Our Sports Practice has been consistently recognized as a Tier 1 National Sports practice.
- The Legal 500 US (2017): Members of our Sports practice have been acclaimed as leading experts for their work in the sports field.
- Intellectual Property Magazine: “Sports, Media & Entertainment Team of the Year” (2010)
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