Hogan Lovells shortlisted for four honors at the Financial Times Innovative Lawyers North America 2025 Awards

• Innovative Lawyers in Dealmaking

Ukraine Mineral Rights Agreement

Hogan Lovells advised the Ukrainian government on a landmark mineral rights agreement designed to secure U.S. investment in Ukraine’s recovery while protecting national sovereignty over natural resources. The deal established the Reconstruction Investment Fund, a Delaware limited partnership jointly governed by the U.S. and Ukraine, enabling long-term co-investment in critical mineral and infrastructure projects. The innovative structure, which counts military assistance as in-kind capital contributions, required navigating complex regulatory, political, and logistical challenges under extreme time pressure. Led by partner Deen Kaplan, with support from partners Megan Ridley-Kaye, Peter Cohen-Millstein, and Adam Kushner, the team delivered a first-of-its-kind framework recognized as a pillar of U.S.-Ukraine relations.

• Innovative Lawyers in Unlocking Capital

Investing in the Future of Sport: How Hogan Lovells Is Shaping the Game

Hogan Lovells advised Strategic Sports Group on a $3 billion investment in PGA TOUR Enterprises, creating a pioneering player equity program that granted ownership stakes to nearly 200 athletes. The deal required balancing complex governance, tax, and investor protections while preserving the TOUR’s nonprofit status. Described by Tiger Woods as “sports history in the making,” this innovative approach is influencing similar structures across professional sports leagues. The deal was led by partners Matt Eisler, Global Head of Sports, and Russell Hedman, with support from partners Mark Weinstein and Jill Kelley (former NFL Jets GC), showcasing Hogan Lovells’ integrated approach that combines cross-border regulatory expertise with deep sector knowledge.

• Individual Category – Innovative Practitioner

Innovative Advocacy in Appellate Litigation

Jessica Ellsworth, partner and co-head of Hogan Lovells’ nationally acclaimed Appellate practice, has redefined advocacy in some of the most high-profile and complex cases in the U.S. In 2024, she argued two appeals for Merck before the Third Circuit on the same day, securing victories that reaffirmed critical protections for companies in highly regulated sectors. She also played a pivotal role in FDA v. Alliance for Hippocratic Medicine, achieving a unanimous U.S. Supreme Court ruling upholding FDA authority and safeguarding access to mifepristone, with far-reaching implications for the pharmaceutical industry. Known for mentoring associates and building strong appellate teams, Jessica has argued 90 cases before federal circuits and multiple Supreme Court matters, cementing her reputation for strategic insight, clarity, and transformative leadership.

• Most Innovative Law Firm in North America

This recognition reflects Hogan Lovells’ firm-wide commitment to innovation, collaboration, and excellence in client service delivery. From groundbreaking transactional structures to precedent-setting litigation, the firm continues to push boundaries and elevate the legal profession across sectors.

Recognized among the most innovative legal minds in North America, the firm continues to push boundaries and elevate the legal profession through bold thinking and impactful work.

The awards ceremony will take place in person on December 8, 2025, at the iconic Gotham Hall in New York City, bringing together industry leaders to celebrate transformative legal work.

More information can be found here.