Global law firm Reed Smith, acting for Channel 4 and IMG Media, has successfully defended an age discrimination claim brought by John McCririck in the London Central Employment Tribunal.

The Reed Smith team was led by employment partner Graham Green and included associates Tom Remington and Amy Ferrington.

Mr McCririck had claimed that the decision not to select him for a pundit role on Channel 4 Racing from 2013 was an act of age discrimination. In the Judgment handed down yesterday, Employment Judge Lewzey states: “it is the unanimous judgment of the Tribunal that Mr McCririck’s claim fails.”

Graham Green, Reed Smith lead partner on the matter commented:

“We are delighted that the Tribunal has ruled in favour of Channel 4 and IMG Media in unanimously dismissing John McCririck’s claim of age discrimination. This case highlights the importance for broadcasters and independent production companies in following the requirements of the Equality Act at all times in relation to talent decisions.”

Prash Naik, Controller of Legal & Compliance of Channel 4 commented:

“We are pleased with the Tribunal’s recognition that discrimination on the basis of age did not play any part in the decision not to include John McCririck in the Channel 4 Racing team from 2013. We regret that John felt it necessary to bring this claim, and thank him for his contribution to Channel 4 over many years. Channel 4 is also grateful for the support and counsel of Graham Green and the rest of the Reed Smith team and Tom Linden QC throughout these proceedings.”

Paul Manning, Vice President of IMG Media Legal added:

“IMG welcomes the decision of the Employment Tribunal to dismiss Mr McCririck’s claims against Channel 4 and IMG in their entirety. We are very grateful to Graham Green, Tom Remington and Amy Ferrington at Reed Smith for their exemplary advice and support throughout the proceedings.”

ENDS

Note to Editors

About Reed Smith

Reed Smith is a global law firm, with 25 offices and more than 1,800 lawyers in offices across Europe, the Middle East, Asia and the United States.

For further information please visit www.reedsmith.com or contact Annabelle Price (Branding & Communications Executive EME) on +44 (0)20 3116 3787.