J. Carlos Kuri

J. Carlos Kuri is the recently appointed Chief Legal Officer at the U.S. Soccer Federation, taking on this role in May 2024.14 Here's an overview of his background and current position:

Professional Experience

Current Role: As Chief Legal Officer at U.S. Soccer Federation, Kuri is responsible for overseeing all legal matters, including:

• Federation and member compliance
• Appeals and grievances
• Contracts
• Litigation4

He reports directly to CEO JT Batson and plays a crucial role as the primary legal leader and advisor for the organization.1

Previous Positions: Before joining U.S. Soccer, Kuri's career included:

• Chief Strategy Officer and General Counsel at SXSW (2021-2024)34
• SVP, Chief Legal Officer at HEINEKEN USA (2019-2021)3
• SVP, General Counsel at Red Bull North America (2013-2019)3
• Vice President and General Counsel at Red Bull New York (2011-2014)3

Education and Early Career

• Law degree from the University of Virginia School of Law3
• Undergraduate degree from the University of Texas4
• Started his career as an associate at Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom and O'Melveny & Myers2

Current Challenges

Kuri faces an early test in his new role as the U.S. Soccer Federation seeks to resolve two long-running antitrust cases:

1. A lawsuit by the North American Soccer League alleging harm due to US Soccer's relationship with Major League Soccer
2. A case accusing US Soccer of damaging the business of soccer promoter Relevant Sports LLC2

These antitrust cases are complex and could potentially result in significant financial implications for the organization.2

Additional Information

• Kuri is a founding advisory board member of SERMA (Sports & Entertainment Risk Management Alliance)4
• He brings valuable experience from the sports industry, having previously established the legal department for the New York Red Bulls and Red Bull Arena4