Partner

John Cloke

Head of Sport

Languages

English

Social media

John is a partner in the commercial media team with over 15 years’ experience, with a particular focus on transactions involving the exploitation of media and other commercial rights in sport. His clients include major sports competitions and governing bodies, sponsors and multinational media companies.

His practice includes advising clients on the sale and acquisition of broadcasting rights, content distribution and media technology issues. He also advises clients on sponsorship, broadcast regulation, new media strategy, and IP-related issues including copyright.

Prior to joining CMS in September 2022, John spent 17 years at DLA Piper.

Awards & Recognitions

01 –

Quote

"He combines commercial acumen with a practical, can-do approach to legal support and an outstanding technical understanding of the relevant issues in this area."

Chambers, 2022

Relevant experience

The Football Association Premier League Limited on its domestic and international rights sales strategy.
A major motor racing competition on licensing of international broadcasting rights.
A leading sports league on its intellectual property rights in competition-related data.

Prior to joining CMS, John advised:

A global media company on various investments and acquisitions and UK media regulation (including the impact of Brexit).
A major consumer goods company on its sponsorship of football clubs and sports/e-sports competitions and a technical partnership with a motor racing team.
An international governing body for a major sport on the collective selling of media rights and rights packaging.
A major European broadcaster on the acquisition of media rights to a global multi-sports event.
A large telco on a bid for broadcasting rights to its local domestic football league.

Education

2001 – Law, B.A.(Hons), Oxford University, Keble College

Practice Areas

Advertising, Marketing & Sponsorship

sectors

TMT - Technology, Media & Telecommunications Esports & Games Media Sport Technology

Insights

Global Reach

UK Pay Gap Report 2024