Ian Scott

As a Senior Partner at Atsumi & Sakai, Ian has provided legal counsel to international and national organizations and teams on international sports and sports events. With over 25 years of experience in this role, and has developed subject-matter expertise in both corporate mergers and acquisitions (M&A) and sports and entertainment  law, which has earned him multiple recognitions as one of the best lawyers in Japan. Ian also serves as an Executive Council Committee member for the Australian New and Zealand Chamber of Commerce Japan, where he collaborates with various trade and investment commissions and embassies.

Key Experience

Ian is an accomplished sport and major international sports event lawyer with over 20 years hands on practical experience being embedded into the operational delivery of major international sports events, including the Rugby World Cup 2019 for almost 8 years, Tokyo 2020 Olympics and Paralympic Games, FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023 and currently involved in the World Athletics Championships in 2025 and a further 6 years working for major sports in Europe. 

Ian develops and executes strategic legal programs for major international sporting events, including tenders, training materials and major programs like the Rights Protection on behalf of all the stakeholders. ...