Loading...Jury NFL ordered to pay billions in sunday ticket antitrust case Following a U.S. District Court jury’s decision, the NFL must pay nearly $4.8 billion in damages for violating antitrust laws. The verdict, issued Thursday, holds the league accountable for distributing out-of-market Sunday afternoon games exclusively through a premium subscription service.
Violation of Antitrust Laws
The jury awarded $4.7 billion in damages to residential subscribers and $96 million to commercial entities. Under federal antitrust laws, these damages could triple, potentially totaling $14.39 billion. The lawsuit covered 2.4 million residential subscribers and 48,000 businesses across the United States who purchased the “Sunday Ticket” package from DirecTV between 2011 and 2022. Plaintiffs argued that the NFL inflated prices for the Sunday games package, thereby violating antitrust laws.
Financial Impact on NFL Teams
Each of the NFL’s 32 teams could face costs averaging approximately $449.6 million if the league is required to pay damages. This financial strain results from the antitrust violation related to the exclusive distribution of “Sunday Ticket” via satellite, limiting competition. The NFL has announced its intention to appeal the verdict, a process that could lead to hearings in the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals and potentially the Supreme Court.
Future Implications and Industry Shifts
The court’s ruling against the NFL’s “Sunday Ticket” distribution model highlights the legal repercussions of antitrust violations in sports broadcasting. The outcome may prompt reforms in how leagues negotiate and distribute media rights, impacting future sports broadcasting practices.
Conclusion
The jury’s decision underscores the significance of fair competition and the potential financial consequences of antitrust violations within the sports industry. “Jury: NFL Ordered to Pay Billions in ‘Sunday Ticket’ Antitrust Case” marks a pivotal moment with far-reaching implications for the league’s operations and the broader landscape of sports media distribution.
