Orrick backs Vivendi in renewed attack on Wilmer client Deutsche Telekom

Orrick Herrington & Sutcliffe client Vivendi Universal is continuing its assault on rival communications giant Deutsche Telekom with the launch of fresh proceedings in Paris.

On 17 May, Vivendi launched a e2.2bn (£1.51bn) claim against Deutsche Telekom, alleging that the German company had wrongfully terminated negotiations relating to the sale of Vivendi subsidiary Polska Telefonia Cyfrowa, a Polish mobile company.

Orrick's Paris-based European managing partner David Syed is acting for Vivendi, having brought the client with him from Watson Farley & Williams when he led a team to Orrick in 2002.

Three other firms are also involved in the litigation: Salans and Weil Gotshal & Manges in Warsaw, with Darrois Villey Maillot Brochier advising on French securities aspects.

Meanwhile, Wilmer Cutler Pickering Hale and Dorr global arbitration head Gary Born is coordinating Deutsche Telekom's defence.

Wilmer Cutler's Born and Deutsche Telekom declined the opportunity to comment.