The University of Miami School of Law recently welcomed FIFA President Gianni Infantino as a special guest in the Entertainment, Arts, and Sports Law LL.M. Program. His visit was part of the school's new course on soccer law, co-taught by Emilio Garcia Silvero, FIFA's chief legal and compliance officer, and Enric Ripoll, founder of ER Sports Law.
Infantino shared insights on the impact and importance of his legal training and the role FIFA plays in governing and developing soccer worldwide and answered student questions. FIFA's recent relocation of its Legal and Compliance division to Miami further reflects its global philosophy.
"We welcome FIFA as our new neighbors in Coral Gables and look forward to future collaborations," said Greg Levy, program director. "Much gratitude to President Gianni Infantino, Emilio Garcia Silvero, and Enric Ripoll for their time and dedication to shaping the next generation of soccer industry leaders."
The course provides an overview of the structure of organized international soccer, the extent of FIFA's jurisdiction, the rules of procedure under the FIFA Football Tribunal, and the appeals before the Court of Arbitration for Sport. Students will also learn the rules and proceedings of player transfers and the regulations governing the activity of soccer agents. At the end of the course, students will visit FIFA headquarters in Miami and conduct a mock trial, applying the applicable laws and regulations explained during the week.
Whether a student’s interest is in entertainment, arts, or sports law, the program's curriculum will help them develop a strong foundation with a wide array of doctrinal and practice-based courses and provide an onramp to opportunities in the industry.
Patricio Varela Laso, EASL LL.M. '24, recently joined FIFA as senior counsel in the disputes and litigation group.
Looking to pivot into the sports industry, Varela joined the Entertainment, Arts, and Sports Law LL.M. at Miami Law after a career as a professional soccer player in Chile, having earned his law degree from Universidad de Chile, an LL.M. from Stanford Law School, and gaining experience at both Hogan Lovells and White & Case LLP.
From day one, he fully immersed himself in the program and the industry, learning from and networking with leading experts in both the classroom and at our events. He also took full advantage of the unique learning opportunity during his practicum with the Miami Sharks in their inaugural season.
His hard work and dedication led to his new position at FIFA, coinciding with their recent move to Miami. This role is a perfect fit, combining his Miami Law EASL LL.M. training and industry knowledge with his past professional experience.
"For any student or lawyer looking to pivot into these fields," said Levy, "Miami Law offers the most comprehensive and unique programming anywhere in the United States."
Read more about Miami Law’s Entertainment, Arts, and Sports Law program.
