World Cup Chaos Has Lawyers Fighting Over Red Cards and Weather, Bloomberg Law

Partner Nicole Buffalano spoke with Bloomberg Law about the increasingly complex legal issues surrounding the 2026 FIFA World Cup, from regulatory disputes and player eligibility to weather-related disruptions and tournament operations.

The article explores how the expansion of the tournament has heightened legal demands on national associations and other stakeholders as they navigate evolving regulations, compressed timelines, and high-stakes decision-making, with Nicole noting that legal planning begins well before the tournament and continues throughout the competition, emphasizing the importance of experienced counsel in managing risk.

“Clients prepare for these issues well in advance of the tournament, and nearly all require ongoing legal advice to mitigate risk,” Nicole said. “I haven’t had to cancel any vacations, but I have provided clients with ongoing legal counsel throughout the tournament.”

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