Chester-based media, sports, and litigation practice, Manleys, has once again demonstrated its prowess by winning an appeal for a young footballer who faced sanctions following an initial FA disciplinary hearing. The player, whose identity remains undisclosed for legal reasons, had been charged with making a racist comment during a league match in the previous season.
Manleys filed grounds of appeal, contending that the original decision was “Wednesbury unreasonable,” meaning that no other tribunal would have arrived at the same conclusion based on the facts and evidence presented. Additionally, the appeal alleged that the player did not receive a fair hearing.
Mark Manley, Managing Director of Manleys, represented the footballer at the appeal hearing. Expressing satisfaction with the outcome, he stated, “The player and his family are naturally very pleased that the appeal succeeded, and the sanction entirely lifted. The player accordingly considers himself exonerated. This was a very serious disciplinary charge with lasting reputational consequences for the player had the first instance decision not been overturned.”
Manley acknowledged the complexity of such cases, especially when navigating the regulations outlined in the FA Handbook. The initial sanction had even ruled the player out of an important Final. However, through the successful appeal, the player was able to participate in the match, which his team ultimately won, leading to success both on and off the pitch.
Manleys has established a strong reputation in representing sportsmen and women across various disciplines in matters related to privacy, reputation management, contractual issues, and other dispute resolution matters. The firm boasts prior achievements in cases before FIFA Arbitration panels and FA Rule K cases.
With its continued dedication to securing favorable outcomes for its clients in the sports industry, Manleys reaffirms its position as a leading legal representative for athletes facing disciplinary challenges.
