A California judge has overturned a $4.7 billion jury verdict against the NFL related to its Sunday Ticket package, citing flawed expert testimonies. The decision saves the NFL from potentially paying over $14 billion in damages and maintains its current broadcast model.
In a significant legal turnaround, a California judge has dismissed a $4.7 billion jury verdict against the National Football League (NFL) concerning its Sunday Ticket package, which offers out-of-market game broadcasts. The judge ruled that the expert testimonies used in the trial were flawed, leading to the verdict's dismissal. This decision not only spares the NFL from a massive financial burden but also allows it to continue its existing broadcast arrangements without alteration.
The initial verdict, which came from a jury trial, had ordered the NFL to pay $4.7 billion in damages for violating antitrust laws through its Sunday Ticket package. This package forced consumers to purchase access to all out-of-market games, even if they were interested in watching only specific games. The judge, Philip Gutierrez, ruled that the expert testimonies presented by the plaintiffs were based on flawed methodologies and should not have been considered, leading to the verdict being overturned.
This ruling is a significant win for the NFL, preventing potential damages that could have totaled over $14 billion due to antitrust law penalties. It also means that the NFL can maintain its current broadcasting model, which includes exclusive broadcasting deals and bundled game packages. This model has been a substantial part of the league's revenue stream and its ability to reach wide audiences.
While the NFL celebrates this legal victory, the plaintiffs may consider an appeal. The case highlights ongoing issues and debates around sports broadcasting rights and packages. Fans and subscribers have expressed mixed reactions, with some advocating for more flexible viewing options and others appreciating the comprehensive access provided by packages like Sunday Ticket.
The overturning of the $4.7 billion verdict against the NFL marks a crucial moment in sports broadcasting and antitrust litigation. It underscores the complexities of legal standards in antitrust cases, especially in industries like sports broadcasting where consumer interests and business models are frequently at odds. The NFL's ability to retain its current broadcast structure will likely influence how other leagues manage their broadcasting rights in the future.
"We are grateful for today’s ruling in the Sunday Ticket class action lawsuit. We believe that the NFL’s media distribution model provides our fans with an array of options to follow the game they love, including local broadcasts of every single game on free over-the-air television." - NFL Spokesperson