Justice Department Blasts Live Nation's 'Desperate Attempt' To Halt Anti-Monopoly Trial—Days Before It Begins

Forbes Business

by Conor Murray, Forbes Staff

February 25, 2026

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The Justice Department has strongly criticized Live Nation for attempting to delay an upcoming antitrust trial, calling the move "desperate" and arguing that it would allow the company to continue alleged anti-competitive practices. The trial, set to begin on Monday, centers on claims that Live Nation and Ticketmaster hold a monopoly over the live entertainment industry, violating federal antitrust laws. Despite Live Nation's efforts to secure a postponement, Judge Arun Subramanian has indicated he is unlikely to grant the request, signaling the trial will proceed as scheduled. The case dates back to May 2024 when the Justice Department filed a lawsuit against Live Nation, joined by 29 states and Washington, D.C. The complaint accused the companies of engaging in anti-competitive tactics such as forcing venues into exclusive contracts with Ticketmaster for ticketing services and compelling artists to use Live Nation's promotion services to book shows at Live Nation-owned venues. These allegations were partially dismissed by Subramanian earlier this month, who ruled that the government had not sufficiently defined a nationwide market for fans in two key claims. However, other significant allegations remain intact, including charges that Live Nation has coerced artists and venues into using its services. The trial will focus on whether Live Nation's practices have stifled competition and harmed consumers. If

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Originally published on Forbes Business on 2/25/2026