Bichara Abidão Neto

Bichara Abidão Neto specializes in dispute resolution, governance, and regulation within the field of sports law. He is a distinguished member of the National Academy of Sports Law (ANDD) and serves on the list of arbitrators at the Brazilian Centre of Mediation and Arbitration (CBMA).

With extensive experience as counsel in arbitration proceedings at the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS), Bichara frequently handles cases involving contractual matters, ethics and discipline, doping, employment disputes, and international transfers of players.

His expertise also encompasses the structuring of football clubs and advising various stakeholders in the sports industry, including clubs, athletes, agents, national associations and federations.

In Olympic sports, Bichara has made significant contributions, notably representing clients before the CAS ad hoc division during the 2016 Rio Olympic Games, 2020 Tokyo Games, and 2024 Paris Games. He has served as counsel for numerous athletes and represented the Brazilian Olympic Committee in the 2020 and 2024 editions of the Olympic Games.

In the realm of sports betting, Bichara has notable expertise. He advises clients on regulatory matters and legal challenges related to ensuring compliance with national and international laws. His insights into the intersection of sports, law, and betting have been instrumental in guiding stakeholders through complex legal landscapes and emerging regulatory frameworks.

Recognized in Who’s Who Legal as a Global Thought Leader, Bichara is highly regarded by peers and clients alike for his expertise in CAS arbitrations and as a trusted adviser to athletes, agents, and associations.

Academically, he is a frequent visiting lecturer in postgraduate and MBA courses focusing on labor law, sports management, and sports law both in Brazil and internationally. Bichara is also the author of several publications in sports and labor law.