UK Athletics has announced the appointment of Richard Yates as its new Legal Counsel, following the departure of Tom Solesbury who is leaving to become Chief Executive of British Rowing this Spring.

Richard Yates joins UK Athletics with extensive experience across sports law, governance, regulation and safeguarding, alongside a strong personal background in athletics. A former British champion over 400m hurdles and Commonwealth Games relay medallist, Richard brings a rare combination of elite sporting insight and senior legal expertise.

Most recently, Richard served as Head of Legal at the Rugby Football League, where he led the organisation’s legal, compliance, medical and safeguarding functions, advising on complex regulatory, disciplinary and integrity matters while supporting long-term governance reform. He has also held senior roles in private practice, advising athletes, clubs and governing bodies across a wide range of sports-related legal and commercial issues.

Richard also has experience in athletics governance, having previously served as Vice-Chair of the UK Athletics Athletes’ Commission, and currently sits on UK Athletics’ Standards, Ethics and Rules Committee and the Independent Athletics Appeal Panel.

In this role, Richard will provide strategic legal leadership across UK Athletics, supporting the organisation’s continued focus on strong governance, athlete welfare, safeguarding and sustainable success across the sport.

Jack Buckner, Chief Executive of UK Athletics, said:

“I am delighted to welcome Richard to UK Athletics as our new Legal Counsel. His work on the Athletes’ Commission and, more recently, as part of our Standards, Ethics and Rules Committee has clearly demonstrated his suitability for such an important role.

“In addition, his experience as a former international athlete will bring a valuable perspective to our work, ensuring that strong governance, integrity and athlete welfare continues to remain at the heart of decision-making across the organisation.”

“We thank Tom for his leadership, commitment and contribution to the sport and wish him every success as he returns to rowing, the sport in which he competed at the very highest level, including two Olympic Games.

Richard Yates said:

“I’m really pleased to be joining UK Athletics at such an important time for the organisation. Athletics is a sport I know well both professionally and personally, and I’m looking forward to contributing my experience across the organisation and the wider sport.”

Richard will take up his role with UK Athletics from February.