Empowering Fair and Efficient Resolution for Sports Disputes

AALCO-HKRAC Sports Industry Mediation and Arbitration Services

I. Overview

In alignment with the Hong Kong Chief Executive’s 2024 Policy Address, the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region is committed to establishing a robust sports dispute resolution framework, leveraging Hong Kong’s institutional strengths as a global hub for arbitration and mediation.

AALCO Hong Kong Regional Arbitration Centre (AALCO-HKRAC) proudly introduces the AALCO-HKRAC Sports Industry Mediation and Arbitration Rules, offering a streamlined, cost-effective, and flexible process for resolving sports-related disputes.

Why Choose AALCO-HKRAC?

  • Global Legacy: As part of the Asian-African Legal Consultative Organization (AALCO), our regional centres, including Asian International Arbitration Centre (AIAC, Malaysia) and Cairo Regional Centre for International Commercial Arbitration (CRCICA, Egypt) serve as official Court of Arbitration for Sports (CAS) alternative hearing centres, bring decades of expertise in international sports dispute resolution.
  • Proven Success: In 2024 alone, AALCO-HKRAC successfully resolved disputes ranging from Hong Kong sports industry, reinforcing Hong Kong’s position as a trusted neutral venue for sports conflicts.

aalcohkrac sports arbitration video

Video link: AALCO-HKRAC Director Nick Chan Interview with Edgar Yang and The Hon Duncan Chiu 

  • Future-Focused: Our rules integrate global best practices, ensuring alignment with standards set by leading institutions.

II. Why AALCO-HKRAC for Sports Disputes?

1. Multi-Tier Resolution Process

  • Seamlessly combine mediation(for collaborative solutions) and arbitration (for binding outcomes) in one framework.
  • Flexibility to switch between modes based on party needs.

2. Broad Scope of Coverage

  • Resolve contractual disputes(e.g., player transfers, sponsorship deals) and non-contractual conflicts (e.g., governance, disciplinary matters).

3. Speed and Cost Efficiency

  • Expedited timelines for urgent decisions (e.g., pre-event disputes).
  • Fixed fees and capped costs to ensure predictability.

4. Internationally Recognized Expertise

  • Access to a global panel of mediators and arbitrators specializing in sports law, athlete rights, and governance.

III. Key Documents and Resources

  • AALCO-HKRAC Sports Industry Mediation and Arbitration Rules
    A comprehensive guide to procedures, timelines, and party rights.
  • Model Dispute Resolution Clause
    For inclusion in contracts to pre-emptively designate AALCO-HKRAC for future disputes.
  • Post-Dispute Resolution Agreement Template (Word/PDF
    For parties seeking to resolve existing conflicts through our framework.
  • Fee Schedule

    Schedule of Fees for AALCO-HKRAC Sports Industry Mediation and Arbitration Rules (2025) (Currency: HKD)

Amount in Dispute Registration Fee (non-refundable, paid by initiating party) AALCO-HKRAC Administrative Fees Mediator/Arbitrator Fees
I. Domestic Cases
≤ 500,000 400 2,000 10,000 per mediator/arbitrator
500,001 ~ 5,000,000 4,000 Hourly rate (capped at 6,500 /hr)
5,000,001 ~20,000,000 6,000
> 20,000,000 To be decided by the AALCO-HKAC
II. Non-Domestic Cases
≤ 500,000 1,000 8,000 20,000 per mediator/arbitrator
500,001 ~5,000,000 12,000 Hourly rate (capped at 6,500 /hr)
5,000,001 ~20,000,000 20,000
> 20,000,000 To be decided by the AALCO-HKAC

IV. Why Hong Kong?

  • Legal Infrastructure: Backed by Hong Kong’s robust mediation and arbitration legal framework - Arbitration Ordinance (Cap 609), Mediation Ordinance (Cap 620), a judiciary supportive of arbitration, deep talent pool, and many other advantages.

  • Deep-Rooted Mediation Culture: Hong Kong champions mediation as a preferred first step for resolving disputes, fostering mutually beneficial outcomes that preserve relationships.

  • Geographical Advantage: A neutral, multilingual hub bridging Asia and global stakeholders.

  • Policy Support: Active government promotion of sports arbitration under the 2024 Policy Agenda.

V. Enquiry

For case filings, procedural guidance, or general inquiries:

Email: [email protected]
Tel: +852 2180 0923