Editorial | Time is ripe for sports arbitration system in Hong Kong

The rapid global development of the sports industry has brought economic, social and cultural benefits. But it has also, inevitably, led to a growing number and variety of sports-related disputes, often concerning alleged breaches of rules relating to competitions, such as doping allegations.

But with the increasing commercialisation of sport, disputes also arise in relation to contracts, intellectual property, sponsorship, injuries and governance. They can be complex and involve multiple jurisdictions.

Hong Kong is not immune to such disputes, but lacks a dedicated, centralised mechanism for resolving them. Thus, sports associations tend to deal with problems internally. That is not always the best approach.

There is a need for a fair, effective and efficient process for athletes, sports clubs and associations, and other relevant parties to settle their differences.

The government’s plan to explore the establishment of a sports dispute resolution system and to promote arbitration is, therefore, welcome. The idea has been discussed for several years and the government is working with stakeholders.

Hong Kong is well-placed to develop such a system, as the city is already a leading arbitration centre and has many arbitrators and mediators who have expertise in the field of sports.