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Justice Department Accuses Live Nation of Illegal Monopoly in Ticketing Trial
The high-profile trial could result in the breakup of the Live Nation-Ticketmaster merger.
Mar. 3, 2026 at 8:27pm
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The Justice Department accused Live Nation and Ticketmaster, which merged in 2010, of violating antitrust law and operating an illegal monopoly over the 'broken' live entertainment industry. Prosecutors allege the companies pocket excessive fees, coerce artists and venues, and harm fans through their dominance of the concert ticketing market.
Why it matters
This trial represents a major antitrust challenge to the dominance of Live Nation and Ticketmaster in the live music industry. If the government prevails, it could lead to the breakup of the merged company and more competition in the ticketing market, potentially benefiting artists and fans.
The details
In opening statements, Justice Department attorney David Dahlquist said Live Nation controls the 'broken' concert industry and pockets $7.58 per ticket on average, more than competitors. Live Nation's attorney disputed these figures, saying the company makes about $5 per ticket but actually pockets less than $2 after expenses. The government alleges Live Nation uses exclusivity contracts and coercion to lock in venues and artists, while Live Nation claims it enables 159 million fans to see shows.
- The trial began on March 3, 2026 in Manhattan federal court.
- The trial is expected to last about six weeks.
The players
Live Nation
A live entertainment company that merged with Ticketmaster in 2010, creating a dominant force in the concert ticketing industry.
Ticketmaster
The largest ticket sales and distribution company in North America, which merged with Live Nation in 2010.
Department of Justice
The U.S. government agency that filed a lawsuit against Live Nation and Ticketmaster, alleging they violate antitrust law and operate an illegal monopoly.
David Dahlquist
A Justice Department attorney prosecuting the case against Live Nation and Ticketmaster.
David Marriott
An attorney representing Live Nation in the trial.
What they’re saying
“We do not have monopoly power.”
— David Marriott, Live Nation attorney
“The concert industry is 'broken' because it is 'controlled by Live Nation,' which he called a 'monopolist.'”
— David Dahlquist, Justice Department attorney
What’s next
The trial is expected to last about six weeks, after which the judge will rule on whether Live Nation and Ticketmaster violated antitrust law.
The takeaway
This high-profile trial represents a major antitrust challenge to the dominance of Live Nation and Ticketmaster in the live music industry. The outcome could have significant implications for competition, pricing, and the fan experience in the concert business.
