Nilo specialises in international sports disputes and contractual matters. With more than 17 years of experience in this field, he has advised clubs, athletes, agents, intermediaries and international sports federations and has successfully represented his clients in disciplinary, regulatory, contractual and doping disputes mainly in proceedings before the Court of Arbitration for Sport.

Nilo is also an arbitrator at the International Panel of Sports Resolutions UK and lecturer in sports masters courses.

What attracted you to a career in sports law?

My life was always surrounded by sports. My parents met in a tennis court. I played tennis in America when very young. So, matching the passion for law and sports is very rewarding.

What qualities do clients look for in an effective sports lawyer?

Always be available and give quick responses. Sports move fast, especially with deadlines involved.

What obstacles do younger lawyers face in the sports industry?

I think for this generation they need to understand that there is a path to be go through and being persistent will make you achieve what you want. Good things take some time.

What is the most interesting case you’ve been a part of, and why?

I am known for always having the most out-of-the box cases. From horse doping, to match fixing but always with interesting aspects not seen before.

You are an arbitrator at the International Panel of Sports Resolutions UK. In your view, how effective is arbitration at handling sports disputes?

It’s very timely and costs effective. Also, the enforcement of decisions can be made either through the International Federations or within countries that are signatories of the 1958 United Nations Convention on the Recognition and Enforcement of Foreign Arbitral Awards.

If you could implement one reform in international sports arbitration, what would it be?

I think the main reform shall be a better qualification of more arbitrators. We do have some that are very qualified but many that are not even involved in sports law.

What inspired you to set up your own firm?

I still do believe that a special personal relationship with a client is the most important part. Having a boutique firm specialised only in sports law allows you to avoid some bureaucracy and be faster and more efficient.

You have enjoyed a distinguished career so far. What more would you still like to achieve?

I want to help sport to have more equality, and also eradicating hate and racism is a common goal between colleagues.