The sporting world has recently been shaken by several high-profile instances of cheating. These include Renault F1's race-fixing and Harlequins' 'Bloodgate' scandal in rugby union. Chelsea FC, meanwhile, was hit by an 18-month transfer ban over the circumstances surrounding its signing of French teenager Gael Kakuta.
'Improved technology, as well as detailed examination, is leading to quicker and more conclusive exposure of the cheats,' said Nick Johnson, legal advisor to the ESA. 'This will greatly strengthen the rights of sponsors, enabling them to react appropriately and hold the rights-holders much more accountable.'
Karen Earl, chairman of the ESA, said the body would advise its members to include clauses within sponsorship contracts to provide them with extra protection.
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