$4.7 Billion NFL Class Action Lawsuit - Millions Stand To Get Paid Out
Adobe | Published: July 4, 2024
Claim Form Deadline: Ongoing
Estimated Payout: Varies
$4.7 Billion NFL Open Class Action Settlement
In a historic ruling, a Los Angeles jury sided against the NFL in a class action antitrust lawsuit concerning the NFL Sunday Ticket package. The US District Court for the Central District of California decided on a record breaking settlement that aims to force the NFL to pay over $4.7 billion to individual fans, on platforms such as YouTube. The NFL class action settlement also provides for nearly $100 million to bars that purchased NFL Sunday Tickets to broadcast games in their businesses.
Since the total settlement amount is allowed to be tripled with current federal antitrust laws, the NFL Sunday Ticket case could eventually result in more than a $14.1 Billion open class action settlement - a landmark achievement for fans, consumers, and businesses if the settlement results in such a massive payout to qualified customers who purchased NFL Sunday Tickets.
The NFL Sunday Ticket class action lawsuit, originally filed back in 2015, accused the NFL of violating antitrust laws with its rate structure for NFL Sunday Ticket. The class action lawsuit argued that the NFL's bundling of football games into one package forced fans and businesses to purchase all games, a monopolistic practice, instead of allowing fans and bars to buy only the games from their favorite team.
NFL Accused of Violating Anti-Trust Laws in Class Action
Many fans and bar owners across the country expressed relief at the verdict. They had long felt trapped by the high costs of the all-inclusive package, which didn't cater to those interested in following just their local teams. This lawsuit highlighted the frustration of these consumers, who felt they were being unfairly overcharged due to the lack of choice.
During the trial, it was revealed that ESPN had proposed taking over the NFL Sunday Ticket from DirecTV after the last season, offering a more affordable service priced at $70 with the option to purchase packages for individual teams. However, the NFL declined this proposal in favor of a deal with YouTube TV, where the lowest price for an NFL Sunday Ticket starts at $349, contingent on having an existing YouTube TV subscription.
How Much Can I Get Paid From The NFL Settlement?
The jury's decision translates into substantial compensation for the affected parties. The 2.4 million fans who purchased the Sunday Ticket will receive approximately $1,958 each, while the 48,000 businesses involved will get around $2,000 each. However, these amounts are subject to change due to inflation and other factors.
Despite this victory, the settlement payouts are not expected to be distributed immediately. The NFL is anticipated to file several post-trial motions by July 31 and plans to appeal the ruling to the US Court of Appeals for the 9th Circuit. The case may even reach the Supreme Court, potentially delaying any payout for months or even years.
When Can I File A Claim?
The NFL's intention to appeal is not surprising given the substantial financial implications. The $4.8 billion payout represents about a quarter of the league's 2023 revenue, a significant hit even for the world's most lucrative professional sports league. Fans and bar owners must brace for a potentially lengthy legal battle before seeing any of the awarded compensation.
While the ruling is a win for consumers, it underscores the complexities of antitrust laws in sports broadcasting and the power dynamics between major leagues and their fan bases. The outcome of the NFL's appeal will be closely watched, as it could set a precedent for future cases involving sports packages and consumer rights.
Stay tuned for updates on the NFL class action lawsuit case here on OpenClassActions.com and check this page for new information as we report on it.
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Filing Class Action Settlement Claims
Please note that your claim form will be rejected if you submit a settlement claim for payout with any fraudulent information. By providing this information and your sworn statement of its veracity, you agree to do so under the penalty of perjury. You would also be harming others that actually qualify for the class action settlement. If you are not sure whether or not you qualify for this class action settlement, visit the class action administrator's website below. OpenClassActions.com is only providing information and is not a class action administrator or a law firm. OpenClassActions is a participant in the Amazon affiliate advertising program and this post may contain affiliate links, which means we may earn a commission or fees if you make a purchase via those links.
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