Samantha is legal counsel for the Judicial Bodies of FIFA. Samantha holds a MLaw from University of Zurich and is currently busy with her LLM in International Dispute Settlement.

How did you get involved in sports law?

I have always been interested in dispute settlement and I always wanted to work for an international organisation in a multicultural environment. I joined FIFA in 2017 as a Legal Counsel for the Corporate Legal Department, through which I discovered my passion for sports law, mainly by assisting FIFA and its member associations in governance and regulatory matters. That wonderful experience equipped me with the knowledge to take on my current role within FIFA’s judicial bodies.  

Any advice for someone trying to break into the sector?

Don’t be afraid to pursue your objectives and be prepared to accept challenges from the very beginning – you never know how the future may surprise you! Undertake further training and speak your mind.

What has been your most memorable achievement in the industry?

In my opinion, achievement cannot be pinned down to a single event. For me, the most memorable achievement is developing and increasing my knowledge daily, to be able to offer the best advice in any area within the football industry and represent my organisation to the best of my ability. 

I am currently pursuing an LLM in International Dispute Settlement (MIDS). Despite it being a demanding program, particularly with a full-time job, this has served to enhance and reinforce my knowledge through the prism of different perspectives from international and private law. I consider embarking on this challenge an achievement in itself.

What is the biggest challenge you’ve had to overcome?

Starting a law career in Switzerland without contacts and a Swiss degree, which I achieved three years after my arrival.

Why did you decide to focus on sports law area?

Right after starting at FIFA, I realised I wanted to become a sports lawyer! 

What benefits / How has WISLaw helped you in your career?

WISLaw has been an excellent platform to get to know colleagues beyond FIFA and stay up to date on the developments in the industry.

What do you do in your spare time?

I love spending time in nature with family and friends and making the most of every season such as skiing in winter, hiking in spring and swimming in summer.

If you weren’t a sports lawyer, what do you think you would be and why? 

I would certainly be working in dispute settlement at an international organisation. I love multicultural environments. I relish at the opportunity to use my language skills, practice international law and to be involved in global projects.