Pilot Scheme on Sports Dispute Resolution (the “Pilot Scheme”)

Empowering Sports with Accessible Justice

Resolve sports disputes fairly, swiftly, and confidentially. Welcome to Hong Kong's dedicated online pathway for resolving sports-related conflicts. This government-led Pilot Scheme provides an efficient, accessible, and cost-effective alternative to court, prioritising mediation to preserve relationships. If needed, a final and binding arbitration is available. The Scheme is administered by AALCO-HKRAC and powered by the secure designated online platform from eBRAM.

Start Your Claim in 4 Simple Steps

Step 1: Understand & Prepare

  • Check Scope: The Scheme covers Commercial Sports Disputes (e.g. sponsorships, player transfers) and Non-Commercial Sports Disputes (e.g. team selection, disciplinary matters).
  • Act Quickly: For selection or eligibility disputes, you must file a claim soonest possible after the decision being communicated to you.
  • Gather Evidence: Collect all relevant contracts, correspondence, and supporting documents.

Step 2: Check the Government Subsidy for Eligible Cases

A government subsidy of up to HKD 60,000 is available to reduce costs for eligible non-commercial sports disputes (e.g. team selection, disciplinary matters).

  • Eligibility: The sports dispute must be non-commercial in nature, and at least one party must satisfy a criterion under Article 1(9)(b) of the Rules. This includes being a Hong Kong resident or an entity registered in Hong Kong under the Companies Ordinance (Cap. 622) or its predecessor (Cap. 32).
  • Purpose: To significantly reduce the financial cost for athletes, coaches, or sports organisations.

How to Apply: You must apply for an eligibility assessment through AALCO-HKRAC when you formally commence proceedings. You can indicate it when submitting your claim on the Designated Online Platform.

Step 3: Launch and Submit Your Claim Online

All claims are submitted and managed through secure AALCO-HKRAC Designated Online Platform.

LAUNCH YOUR CLAIM
  • Click the LAUNCH YOUR CLAIM button above to access the Designated Online Platform.
  • Click the “Submit new case” button to select the type of case according to the notice.
  • Follow the steps to complete the digital Notice of Commencement form.
  • Upload your supporting documents.
  • If applicable, indicate your interest in the government subsidy for eligible non-commercial sports disputes by completing the Subsidy Application and Eligibility section and uploading your supporting documents.

Step 4: Initiate the “Mediation First” Process

  • AALCO-HKRAC team will acknowledge receipt of your submission and provide guidance throughout the process.
  • The process follows the principle of “Mediation First, Arbitration Next.” You will initially engage in efforts to resolve the dispute through the assistance of a neutral mediator.
  • Should the mediation process be unsuccessful, the case will then proceed to binding arbitration.

Important Note: Disputes involving allegations of doping, match-fixing, or corruption will proceed directly to arbitration, bypassing the mediation stage.

Related Resources

    • Pilot Scheme Sports Mediation Panel
    • Pilot Scheme Sports Arbitration Panel

Need Help at Any Step?

Our dedicated administrative team at AALCO-HKRAC is here to assist you every step of the way.