O REI Sport Law Publications

A working archive of student writing in international sports law.

Selected student articles and master's theses produced inside O REI. A working record of how the next generation of sports lawyers is thinking about the legal questions shaping the industry.

Articles published by O REI faculty, students, and alumni in external journals and outlets.

External Publications

2 entries · #safeguarding

2025-2026 edition

1 entry

External publications

2026

African Talent Pathways & Exploitation Risks: Are FIFA’s Safeguards Sufficient?

This article examines the opportunities and risks linked to African football talent pathways, with particular focus on the potential exploitation of young players seeking professional opportunities abroad. It analyses whether FIFA’s existing safeguards are sufficient to protect vulnerable players from abusive intermediaries, irregular academies and unsafe migration routes. The article highlights the need for stronger regulation, monitoring and accountability to ensure that talent development is matched with effective player protection.

#African football#youth development#player exploitation#FIFA safeguards

Hazem Gamal Elsaidy & Hassan Youssef

LLM 2025-2026 O REI Sports Law Graduate

12 June 2026

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2024-2025 edition

1 entry

External publications

2026

Mind over Matter: How Mental Health Protections are Transforming Contracts in Sports

This article explores how mental health considerations are increasingly influencing the drafting and interpretation of sports contracts. It analyses the growing need to protect athletes’ psychological wellbeing through contractual safeguards, institutional duties of care and more balanced employment relationships. The article highlights how mental health is becoming a key legal and governance issue in modern sport, moving beyond performance concerns into contract design, athlete protection and organisational responsibility.

#mental health#athlete welfare#sports contracts#player protection

Rodrigo Arias Grillo & Emely Saenz

LLM 2024-2025 O REI Sports Law Graduate

12 June 2026

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Submissions are welcomed from current O REI students, alumni, and visiting researchers. Include your full name, programme, and a brief statement of credentials.

contact@orei.institute