We are delighted to announce our Member of the Month, Maria Elisa Dominguez Rubio, Senior Legal Counsel at FIFA Football Regulatory Subdivision, Zurich, Argentinean/Spanish.

How did you get involved in Sports Law?

A friend of mine, whose father was vice president of a training club in Argentina, brought me my first case which was a sell-on fee triggered by the international transfer of a football player which later on became quite famous.

What has been your most memorable achievement in the Sports Law industry?

I would like to point out two achievements: 1.- being part at the early stages of introducing mediation as alternative dispute resolution before the FIFA Football Tribunal and 2.- founding WISLaw together with Melanie Schaerer and Despina Mavromati.

Any advice for someone trying to break into this industry?

Currently our sector is full of specialised professionals, which does not make it easy for young colleagues to enter into this industry. I would recommend to young professionals to attend masters or specialised post graduate courses, build-up a strong network and learn new languages.

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

The transition from South America to Europe. At that time, 20 years ago, sports law was mostly developed in Europe. Therefore, if I wanted to specialise in this sector, it was a must to come to Europe. This decision had a strong impact not only in my professional life but also in my personal aspects.

What prompted your decision to concentrate on your current field(s) of sports law?

I have always been interested in international sports dispute resolution. Therefore, working in the FIFA Legal division, it was a perfect match.

How has WISLaw helped you in your career?

WISLaw provided me more visibility in the sector and brought me a great new network of female sport lawyers.

What do you do in your spare time / What are your favourite sports?

Hiking and dining with friends. Going to movies and concerts.

If you were not a sports lawyer, what do you think you would be and why?

Something related to solving controversies combining my legal knowledge with other tools from other disciplines, such as, family constellation.