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Specialist sports lawyer joins Pinsent Masons

International law firm Pinsent Masons has appointed leading sports lawyer Trevor Watkins as the head of its sports division.

Watkins, who is recognised as one of the world’s top 20 lawyers in sport, has extensive experience within the industry having worked with clubs, governing bodies and rights-holders. He was the founder director of Supporters Direct, a divisional director to the board of the Football League in England and also served as chairman at AFC Bournemouth. He arrives at Pinsent Masons from Clarke Willmott together with his team.

“Sport is an increasingly important part of the business the firm does,” said Pinsent Masons head of retail and leisure Tom Leman. “Trevor’s arrival will strengthen the offering to our clients and similarly broaden the support that his existing clients and contacts receive. His proven reputation and stature will be a major boost for our team. I’m delighted he has chosen to join us and am sure we will go from strength to strength with him on board.”

Watkins added: "The decision to move was very much about providing clients with what they need. The breadth and depth of the Pinsent Masons offering together with their approach and culture convinced me that this was the right home for us. Sport is a tremendous sector to work within. I am looking forward to the considerable opportunities that exist to establish Pinsent Masons as the advisors of choice both domestically and internationally for clients active in the sports sector."