Game Plan: How athletes can safeguard their financial future

• 18 August 2025
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As we continue to enjoy this ‘summer of sport’ – with the US Open and the Women’s Rugby World Cup just around the corner – our focus shifts once again to the unique legal challenges that can arise behind the scenes. For sports stars whose careers span the globe, the international nature of their lives can turn family law matters into a complex legal playing field – especially when relationships break down.

England and Wales remains one of the most generous jurisdictions in the world when it comes to financial settlements on divorce. For individuals with strong connections to England and Wales (whether through domicile or habitual residence), this can be a powerful strategic advantage when seeking to initiate a claim for financial provision. In some circumstances, even those who have divorced in another jurisdiction can seek the assistance of the English family court. In certain cases where a spouse has received an inadequate financial settlement overseas, the court can step in to provide ‘financial relief after an overseas divorce’. 

That’s why it’s crucial for sports men and women to always be mindful of their connections to this jurisdiction, and to proactively explore how best to protect their financial position—both now and in the future. So what steps can you take?

1. Consider a well-drafted pre-nuptial agreement before marriage to ensure that the less wealthy spouse’s needs are proportionately met. A pre-nuptial agreement that makes adequate financial provision for the less wealthy spouse and is considered fair in the circumstances at the time of relationship breakdown, is likely to be upheld on divorce – potentially saving considerable time, costs and emotional strain in the event of later relationship breakdown.
2. Reassess your position with a post-nuptial agreement if your career has taken off or has hit new heights, and you did not enter into a pre-nuptial agreement prior to marriage. This offers you a valuable chance to reflect upon your current financial reality, ringfence assets, and put clear, fair arrangements in place should the relationship break down.
3. Seek expert advice from an English family lawyer if either spouse has strong connections to this jurisdiction, even if the divorce takes place elsewhere.  This step can be crucial in protecting your financial position. Early legal guidance can help reduce the risk of a successful claim for financial relief after an overseas divorce. 
4. Don’t overlook financial planning for children – especially if you’re unmarried. English courts allow unmarried parents to seek financial support for their children from the other parent, and for sports professionals with children – or those planning to start a family – a cohabitation agreement can be a game-changer. By detailing the level of financial provision that will be made for any child of the family should the relationship come to an end, a cohabitation agreement can offer clarity, protection, and peace of mind for both parents.

In the high-stakes world of professional sport, foresight is everything. Understanding the financial implications of a relationship breakdown is essential.  With the right legal strategy, sports professionals can stay ahead of the game, protect what matters most, and build a future that’s as secure off the field as it is on it.