The book describes and discusses both state-created rules and
autonomous self-regulation regarding the variety of economic, social,
commercial, cultural, and political aspects of sports activities. Self-
regulation manifests itself in the form of by-laws, and encompasses
organizational provisions, disciplinary rules, and rules of play.
However, the trend towards more professionalism in sports and the
growing economic, social and cultural relevance of sports have prompted
an increasing reliance on legal rules adopted by public authorities.
This form of regulation appears in a variety of legal areas,
including criminal law, labour law, commercial law, tax law, competition
law, and tort law, and may vary following a particular type or sector
of sport. It is in this dual and overlapping context that such
much-publicized aspects as doping, sponsoring and media, and
responsibility for injuries are legally measured.
This
monograph fills a gap in the legal literature by giving academics,
practitioners, sports organizations, and policymakers access to sports
law at this specific level. Lawyers representing parties with interests
in Ireland will welcome this very useful guide, and academics and
researchers will appreciate its value in the study of comparative sports
law.