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Aquatics Integrity unit Seeks Pro bono Legal Counsel to Uphold Sporting standards
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The Aquatics Integrity Unit (AQIU) is actively recruiting qualified legal professionals to join its roster of pro bono counsel,bolstering its commitment to maintaining integrity within the world of aquatic sports. The call for applications, issued on January 27, 2026, signals a proactive step towards strengthening the AQIU’s ability to address complex legal challenges.
Expanding Legal Support for Aquatic Sports
The AQIU, dedicated to safeguarding fairness and ethical conduct in swimming, diving, water polo, and related disciplines, recognizes the critical need for specialized legal expertise. This initiative aims to establish a network of lawyers and law firms willing to donate their time and skills to support the AQIU’s mission. According to the official proclamation, the unit seeks counsel capable of navigating the intricate landscape of international sports law and regulations.
Eligibility Requirements for Pro Bono Counsel
To be considered for inclusion on the AQIU’s list, candidates must meet a stringent set of criteria. These include:
- A demonstrable and thorough understanding of World Aquatics’ rules and regulations.
- Licensure to practice law in at least one national jurisdiction within the membership of World Aquatics’ member federations.
- A minimum of two years of professional experience specifically in sports law.
- Proven availability and flexibility to dedicate attention to matters as assigned by the AQIU.
- Complete independence – candidates must have no prior affiliations or official roles with World Aquatics, the AQIU itself, Continental Organizations, or Member Federations.
- Fluency in English is essential for effective communication and collaboration.
Accessing the Terms of Reference
Interested legal professionals are encouraged to review the complete terms of Reference for the Pro Bono Counsel List, which can be found here. This document provides detailed facts regarding the scope of work, expectations, and responsibilities associated with serving as pro bono counsel to the AQIU.
Application Process and deadline
Candidates who meet the outlined requirements should submit a motivation letter accompanied by their curriculum vitae (CV) to the AQIU via email at [email protected]. The deadline for submissions is march 1, 2026. This provides prospective counsel ample time to prepare their applications and demonstrate their commitment to upholding the highest standards of integrity in aquatic sports.
Why: The Aquatics integrity Unit (AQIU) is seeking pro bono legal counsel to bolster its capacity to address legal challenges and maintain integrity in aquatic sports. This initiative is a response to the growing complexity of international sports law and the need for specialized expertise.
Who: The AQIU is recruiting qualified legal professionals – lawyers and law firms – with a minimum of two years’ experience in sports law, licensed in a jurisdiction within World Aquatics’ member federations, and fluent in English. Applicants must be independent of World Aquatics and related organizations.
What: The AQIU is establishing a roster of pro bono counsel to provide legal support on matters related to fairness, ethics, and regulations in swimming, diving, water polo, and related disciplines. This includes navigating international sports law and assisting with investigations and disciplinary proceedings.
How did it end?: The application process is currently open, with a submission deadline of March 1, 2026. The AQIU will review applications based on the outlined criteria and select candidates to join the pro bono counsel list. The outcome of the recruitment will be a strengthened legal support network for the AQIU,enabling it to more effectively uphold integrity in aquatic sports.
