With the aim of enhancing and updating legal sports knowledge among club companies, exchanging experiences and learning about the latest developments in the legal field related to football, the Qatar Stars League (QSL), in co-operation with the legal department of international football federation (FIFA), organized a legal seminar for legal officials in the First and Second Division clubs. The symposium was held on June 5 and 6, 2024, at the Marriott Marquis City Center Doha Hotel, with the presence and participation of officials from FIFA and Qatar Football Association.

Mr. Hani Taleb Ballan, CEO of QSL, who opened the symposium activities, welcomed all attendees and especially thanked the representatives of FIFA for their participation.

“I would like to express my gratitude and appreciation to all of you and the FIFA staff for their support and dedication to the global football community for being with us. It confirms our strong partnership and efforts in facing the challenges of football. I urge all representatives of club companies to make the most of this symposium, which is an important opportunity to exchange ideas and participate in valuable discussions. Knowledge and work in sports law are crucial for the football industry because they ensure we operate within legal frameworks, promoting fair play and transparency,” said Mr. Ballan. He emphasized that “knowledge of sports law also helps deal with issues related to contracts and transfers that ultimately contribute to providing stability.”

The seminar’s agenda included a discussion of the legal and regulatory challenges facing clubs, the recent judicial procedures of the FIFA tribunal, and the Court of Arbitration for Sport, in addition to the latest developments in FIFA regulations and sports law. This included an explanation and interpretation of the regulations related to transfer deals, solidarity contributions, and working with agents. Employees and representatives of club companies were also provided with a comprehensive understanding of special procedures, such as knowledge of legal issues relating to international transfers of minors, dispute resolution and how league regulations are enhanced.

Participants also learned about the latest developments in legal technology transformation and Sports Intellectual Property.