Ticketmaster and Live Nation are facing legal challenges over allegations of price gouging.
A group of nearly 400 fans has filed a lawsuit accusing the companies of colluding with partner organizations to inflate ticket prices, violating the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act (RICO).
The lawsuit builds on a federal case initiated by Taylor Swift fans in December 2022, which arose from a problematic ticket sale for Swift's Eras Tour. The fans reported technical difficulties and extensive wait times, only to find tickets listed at inflated prices on Ticketmaster's resale platform.
The lawsuit claims that Ticketmaster and Live Nation have exploited their relationship with stadium venues to establish a monopoly in the ticketing market.
The plaintiffs are seeking financial compensation and hope to bring attention to broader issues of ticket pricing and access to live events.
The federal lawsuit is on hold pending the outcome of an appeal related to Ticketmaster's arbitration terms. The original lawsuit included allegations of breach of contract, fraud, and antitrust violations.
The legal challenges come at a time when the ticketing industry is under increased scrutiny, with the U.S. Department of Justice filing its own antitrust lawsuit against Ticketmaster and Live Nation.
Live Nation has disputed the claims, arguing that the DOJ's lawsuit does not address the core issues that fans care about.
The outcome of the legal battles could have significant ramifications for the ticketing industry and consumer rights, potentially leading to reforms that enhance transparency and competition.