A 2026 antitrust trial accuses Live Nation and Ticketmaster of monopolistic practices, alleging forced use of their services to access venues.

In March 2026, Live Nation and Ticketmaster were the subject of a significant antitrust trial, with the U.S. The company is accused by the Department of Justice and 39 states of maintaining unlawful monopolies in venue operations, ticketing, and concert promotion. The lawsuit contests the 2010 merger, claiming that anti-competitive behavior and exclusive contracts increased ticket costs and reduced competition. The trial focuses on whether Live Nation required artists to use its services in order to gain access to its amphitheaters, even though some claims were rejected. Executives and performers like Kid Rock are expected to testify. The live entertainment industry could undergo structural changes as a result of a ruling, including a possible breakup.