About Olivier
Olivier Carrard: Sports Law, Insolvency and Reorganization Law Attorney in Geneva, Switzerland
As a leading attorney specializing in Sports law, litigation, arbitration, commercial law, construction law, inheritance law, and bankruptcy, Olivier Carrard has dedicated his career to providing exceptional legal counsel. Born on March 13, 1958, he completed his education at the University of Fribourg in 1982.
Introduction
Olivier Carrard began his legal journey by obtaining a position with the General Direction of SBS (Basel), where he honed his skills. In 1990, he founded his own firm and joined ZPG as a partner in 2005. His firm merged with CMS in 2014, and he now serves as a Partner at CMS Geneva Office. This firm's focus on Sports law complements Carrard’s expertise in sports litigation, arbitration, and other related areas.
Practice Areas
- Sports Law
- Litigation
- Arbitration
- Commercial Law
- Construction Law
- Inheritance Law
- Bankruptcy
- Insolvency and Reorganization Law
Education & Credentials
- University of Fribourg: 1982 - Graduated, with a focus on legal studies.
- Bachelor of Laws (LLB), Master of Laws (LLM): University of Geneva, 1985 - Admitted to the Geneva Bar and commenced his legal career.
- Bar Admissions: Switzerland, Geneva.
- Awards: Recognized in Best Attorney USA since 2022, Lawyer of the Year: Sports Law, Geneva, Switzerland (2025).
Firms
Olivier Carrard is a Partner at CMS von Erlach Partners Ltd. He has previously held positions as a partner in ZPG and prior to that, he was part of the CMS team, working closely with leading international law firms.
Affiliations
- Swiss Fencing Federation, President (2004-present)
- International Fencing Federation (FIE), Ethics Board President (2004-present)
- Court of Arbitration for Sport Member (since 1996)
- Addition as member of ad hoc Division during the Winter Olympic Games of Vancouver in 2010
Languages
- English
- French
- German
Olivier Carrard's extensive legal career encompasses over 390 CAS arbitrations since 1996, with his achievements in the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) standing out. As a former participant as an athlete to the Olympic Games of Los Angeles (1984), he brings unique insights into sports law and arbitration.
Olivier Carrard believes that legal advocacy is not just about winning cases; it's about creating fair solutions for his clients, whether they are athletes in dispute or businesses navigating complex legal waters. His experience in Sports Law and Insolvency and Reorganization Law positions him as a trusted advisor to those seeking comprehensive legal strategies.
Learn more about Olivier Carrard at