The CAS as an independent arbitral tribunal

Abstract

Since its formation under the auspices of the International Olympic Committee, the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) has had to contend with allegations about its impartiality and independence. Some scholars believe that the CAS still lacks independence and impartiality considering the appeals sent to the Swiss Federal Tribunal by athletes, and also its funding which comes from international sports federations. This article seeks to shed light on several issues concerning the CAS’s independence from the sports governing bodies and the International Olympic Committee, as well as the impartiality of its appointed arbitrators when resolving sports related disputes between players and clubs.