Global sport is about to undergo a profound transformation. Starting July 1, 2025, the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) will implement a new Code of Arbitration that redefines the deadlines, procedures, and criteria governing international sports justice. This regulatory update aims to reinforce transparency, efficiency, and the legitimacy of its decisions in a context where every ruling can influence not only competitions but also the very meaning of fairness in sport.
This court, based in Lausanne, has been behind landmark decisions such as the authorization of Oscar Pistorius to compete at London 2012, or the suspension of rules excluding athletes like Dutee Chand. While its work happens far from stadiums and cameras, its rulings shape the path of federations, calendars, and careers. That’s why the changes in its new code are not mere administrative tweaks: they are key elements in the structure of modern sport.
Key changes redefining sports arbitration
Among the main reforms, the validation of electronic submissions stands out, which will now carry full legal weight if they meet technical requirements. In urgent cases, like that of Simona Halep and her defense against a doping ban, this digital channel could prove a decisive factor. In addition, the new Article R54 explicitly requires the tribunal to consider diversity, experience, and rotation when appointing arbitrators—an especially important change in complex cases such as Caster Semenya, where panel composition can directly affect the fairness of the verdict.
Moreover, the new code introduces an expedited procedure when both parties agree (Article R44.4), ideal for disputes with tight timelines like Manchester City’s appeal to UEFA. Added to this is a maximum three-month deadline (R46) to deliver awards, and failure to comply could result in sanctions against the panel. New financial transparency obligations (R64.4) will also be enforced, and—unless protected by confidentiality agreements—arbitral awards may be published. Altogether, this points to a more agile CAS, clearer and open to public scrutiny, aligned with the demands of a global sport that calls for clear rules, swift decisions, and unquestionable legitimacy.
