There will be a preliminary trial on the issue of meaning tomorrow in a libel claim brought by the Premier League footballer Mamadou Sakho against the World Anti-Doping Authority. Mr Sakho, who plays for Crystal Palace Football Club and the French national team, is suing WADA over statements made in 2016 and 2017 in relation to anti-doping proceedings brought against Mr Sakho (in which Mr Sakho was ultimately found not to have committed an anti-doping violation).
Mrs Justice Steyn will hear submissions from both parties on the meaning of publications by WADA at the time, which were republished widely by the Telegraph and the Guardian, among other publications. There is also a dispute between the parties as to whether the Court should determine the meanings of the media republications.
5RB’s Julian Santos appears for the First Claimant Mr Sakho, instructed by Morgan Sports Law.
5RB’s Victoria Jolliffe appears for the Defendant, instructed by Covington & Burling LLP