Attorney General Raúl Torrez announced on Apr. 15 that a New York jury found Live Nation and Ticketmaster violated federal and state antitrust laws by eliminating competition and raising costs for fans, artists, and venues. The verdict follows a nearly six-week trial involving Torrez and a coalition of 33 other attorneys general. The judge will determine remedies at a later date.
The case is significant because it addresses concerns about large corporations dominating the live event industry to the detriment of consumers and smaller businesses. The jury determined that Ticketmaster unlawfully maintains a monopoly in ticketing services for major concert venues, while Live Nation holds a monopoly over large amphitheaters used by artists. According to the verdict, Live Nation also requires artists using its amphitheaters to use its event promotion services.
“Today’s verdict is a major win for American consumers and a clear validation of what we’ve been saying all along: people are fed up with powerful corporations rigging the system in their favor,” said Attorney General Raúl Torrez. “Live Nation and Ticketmaster used their dominance to squeeze out competition and drive-up prices, and everyday fans, artists, and venues paid the price. This case shows that no company, no matter how large, is above the law. We will continue fighting to ensure fair markets, protect consumers, and hold corporations accountable when they abuse their power.”
The New Mexico Department of Justice joined this civil antitrust lawsuit against Live Nation/Ticketmaster in August 2024 alleging that control over multiple aspects of live events allowed them to suppress competition nationwide. During the trial which began March 2, the U.S. Department of Justice reached a settlement with Live Nation; however Torrez and his coalition rejected it in favor of continuing litigation.
The New Mexico Attorney General serves as chief legal officer for the state according to the official website. The office provides services across all counties according to the official website while advancing justice through civil litigation and criminal prosecutions according to the official website. It seeks to protect consumers, support law enforcement efforts—including coordination with local agencies—and uphold trust through community outreach initiatives according to the official website.
A copy of the original complaint can be found HERE.
