Gowling WLG has been revealed as the first official sponsor of Team England as it prepares its athletes to compete at the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games.

The law firm has also been appointed Official Legal Advisers to Commonwealth Games England and will advise the company on a range of services including commercial and contract matters, employment law and data protection in the run up to Birmingham 2022.

The Gowling WLG team, led by partner and board member Stuart Young, will work alongside Commonwealth Games England Chief Executive, Paul Blanchard, as the organisation hopes to build on the success of Team England at the Gold Coast 2018 Commonwealth Games, where they won 136 medals, including 45 golds.

The firm's involvement spans its international network, as Gowling WLG (Canada) LLP has also been appointed as the first official sponsor to Commonwealth Games Canada, supporting Team Canada's preparation for Birmingham 2022.

David Fennell, Chief Executive at Gowling WLG, said: "We're excited to support Paul and Team England as they get ready for the unique opportunity of a home Games. This event will have the largest ever female and para-sport programme in Commonwealth Games history - thousands of hours of training has already begun as the athletes look to claim a place on the podium, and we are proud to be working with them to help them achieve their goals.  

"There will be some healthy competition across the firm as we keep an eye on the medal table at Birmingham 2022, and we're looking forward to seeing who comes out on top between Team England and Team Canada."

Paul Blanchard, Commonwealth Games England CEO, said: “We’re absolutely delighted to have Gowling WLG on board as our first sponsor for Birmingham 2022. Heading into a home Games, this support will be invaluable to the athletes selected to represent their country at the Commonwealth Games in front of their friends and family. Having Gowling WLG as our official legal advisors for this cycle will help to ensure we can provide the best environment for our athletes to perform at their best after years of hard work and dedication to get to the Games."

The news follows the announcement in August of the firm as exclusive Official Legal Advisers to the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games and the first sponsor to be announced for this major multi-sport event.