Charles Russell Speechlys Hires Industry Experts From World Rugby, FA and BHA For New-model Sports Practice

With integrity in sports in the spotlight, Charles Russell Speechlys has appointed Darren Bailey, former Head of Legal at World Rugby and Director of Football Governance and Regulation at the FA, and Danielle Sharkey, former in-house Legal and Compliance Adviser at the British Horseracing Authority.

Darren has sixteen years’ experience working at the highest levels of international rugby and English football. Danielle spent eight years advising British racing’s governing body on legal issues, integrity and regulatory operations.

Nic Couchman, Head of Sport at Charles Russell Speechlys, said: “With questions about integrity in sport multiplying daily, and the sports sector facing increasing scrutiny and regulation, our clients need lawyers with a deep understanding of the administration and business of sport. Darren and Danielle fit this mould – both have extensive experience inside sport which allows them to fully appreciate the client’s position, better enabling them to anticipate issues and implement practical legal, integrity, regulatory and governance solutions. At a time when sport is rapidly transforming, we’re delighted they’re joining us to give our new-model sports practice a unique edge.”