Our sports law team has been ranked as a Tier 1 firm in the inaugural edition of Sports Law International 2026, a new specialist global guide covering firms and individuals across the Asia-Pacific region and beyond.

Ashton Welsh and Richard Watts were both recognised as Leading Lawyers.

Sports Law International is a specialist global directory focused on sports, media and rights protection. Rankings are based on independent research, firm submissions and confidential client interviews.

Simpson Grierson’s is New Zealand's only national law firm with a dedicated sports law team. Our team advises across commercial and governance matters, media and broadcast rights, intellectual property protection, employment, and major events, acting for some of New Zealand's most prominent sports organisations.

Richard Watts says: "Sports law is an increasingly complex area, so we are lucky to have experts within the team with specific expertise in governance, employment and player-safety, commercial and broadcasting, venues and rights protection/ambush marketing”.

“To be recognised in a guide specifically focused on sports, media and rights protection is a reflection of the depth and focus of the team," says Richard.

Ashton Welsh adds: “This recognition reflects the depth of our sports law offering and the trust placed in us by New Zealand’s leading sports organisations.”  

Get in touch with Ashton or Richard to find out more about our sports law practice.