Rajah & Tann Singapore has contributed an article titled “Athletes at Major Games and Sports Competitions: Marketing, Advertising Restrictions, Anti-Doping Rules and Safe Sport Principles” to the Singapore Academy of Law Journal (SAcLJ).
Athletes who compete in major games and elite sports competitions are often subject to commercial limitations, regulatory obligations and integrity safeguards. This article, authored by Partner Lau Kok Keng (Head, Intellectual Property, Sports and Gaming), Senior Associate Yong Yi Xiang, and Associate Claire Mak, explores the complex and often contentious interplay between athletes’ interests and the legal frameworks that protect the commercial viability of major games and sports competitions. It examines sports events-related advertising and ambush-marketing restrictions, and discusses the principles governing the protection of event and athlete intellectual property in light of the changes to the Olympic Charter Rule 40. It also delves into issues such as results manipulation or match fixing, betting prohibitions, and anti-doping under the World Anti-Doping Agency Code, and their overlaps with national criminal laws. Additionally, the article analyses safe sport frameworks and policies including those relating to harassment and abuse prevention, reporting and investigation processes, protective measures, case management and sanctions.
The article highlights that safeguarding intellectual property rights and managing commercial interests are vital components of major games and sports competitions. It notes that the strength of the legal and regulatory systems governing participation in these events relies not only on the clarity and robustness of the rules, but also on the commitment of all stakeholders – including athletes, officials, sponsors and organisers – to uphold the core values of sports such as fairness, integrity and respect, while ensuring athlete safety and well-being.
Lau Kok Keng, Yong Yi Xiang & Claire Mak, “Athletes at Major Games and Sports Competitions: Marketing, Advertising Restrictions, Anti-Doping Rules and Safe Sport Principles” Singapore Academy of Law Journal (published on e-First 26 December 2025) About e-First | AP Journals Online
The article is the second in a two-part series, with the first instalment focusing on eligibility and codes of conduct. The first instalment is available here. Together, the two articles represent a pioneering effort in Singapore, offering comprehensive coverage and depth for athletes, officials, sports legal advisors, and other industry stakeholders seeking to understand and navigate the legal complexities of major games and sporting events.
Find out more about our Sports Practice and Intellectual Property Practice here and here.
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