NFL+ Faces Class Action Lawsuit over Sunday Ticket Package

NFL+ Faces Class Action Lawsuit over Sunday Ticket Package NFL+, the streaming service launched by the National Football League (NFL), is facing a class action lawsuit alleging that its exclusive distribution of the Sunday Ticket package violates antitrust laws. The lawsuit, filed in a California federal court, claims that NFL+ has monopolized the distribution of the Sunday Ticket package, which allows fans to watch all out-of-market Sunday afternoon NFL games. The suit alleges that the NFL’s decision to grant exclusive rights to NFL+ has limited competition and inflated prices. According to the lawsuit, NFL+ has charged “exorbitant” prices for the Sunday Ticket package, with the full season package costing $300 per year. The plaintiffs argue that this pricing is anti-competitive and has prevented fans from accessing affordable out-of-market games. The lawsuit also alleges that NFL+ has engaged in unfair trade practices, such as tying the Sunday Ticket package to other NFL streaming services. This practice, known as “bundling,” has allegedly reduced consumer choice and raised prices. The plaintiffs seek damages, an injunction to prevent NFL+ from continuing the alleged anti-competitive practices, and a divestiture of the Sunday Ticket package to a competitor. The NFL has not yet publicly commented on the lawsuit. However, the league has previously stated that it believes the exclusive distribution of the Sunday Ticket package is necessary to maintain its competitive advantage and ensure the financial stability of its teams. The lawsuit has potential implications for the future of sports streaming and the NFL’s dominance in the industry. If successful, it could force the NFL to re-evaluate its exclusive distribution agreements and create more competition in the market for out-of-market sports content.The provided HTML snippet includes a lawsuit filed against the NFL by subscribers of its “Sunday Ticket” package, accusing the league of violating antitrust laws and gouging prices. The lawsuit, which began in 2015, alleges that the NFL has abused its exemption from antitrust laws to restrict competition and inflate prices for its Sunday out-of-market games package.The provided HTML snippet includes a lawsuit filed against the NFL by subscribers of its “Sunday Ticket” package, accusing the league of violating antitrust laws and gouging prices. The lawsuit, which began in 2015, alleges that the NFL has abused its exemption from antitrust laws to restrict competition and inflate prices for its Sunday out-of-market games package. If the NFL loses the case, damages could reach $21 billion due to the way antitrust laws are written. Observers note that the plaintiffs’ attorneys have presented documents indicating that networks are pressuring the NFL to maintain high prices for the Sunday Ticket package and that the NFL has rejected an ESPN proposal to offer the package at a lower price on its streaming service. The NFL claims it has the right to sell the Sunday Ticket package under the broadcast antitrust exemption. The outcome of the case and timeline for a decision are uncertain, and any potential financial recovery for the plaintiffs may be delayed due to the NFL’s appeal options.