NFL Sunday Ticket Appeal Sparks Controversy

The NFL has announced its intention to appeal a recent court verdict that found the league guilty of violating antitrust laws. The ruling, which was handed down last month, ordered the NFL to pay a massive $4.7 billion in residential class damages and $96 million in commercial class damages. The case, which was originally filed in 2015, centers around the NFL’s Sunday Ticket package, which allows fans to watch out-of-market games.

Roger Goodell expresses his disappointment with the court’s verdict

In an interview with CNBC, NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell expressed his disappointment with the court’s verdict, saying, “Well, we obviously disagree with the jury verdict and we are committed obviously to following the legal process.” [1] Goodell emphasized the league’s commitment to making its sport available to the broadest possible audience, stating that Sunday Ticket is merely a complementary product.

The plaintiffs in the case argue that the NFL worked with network partners to inflate the price of the Sunday Ticket package, making it unaffordable to most fans. However, the NFL claims that the price reflects the premium nature of the product, which offers fans a unique viewing experience.

The NFL’s Sunday Ticket package has been at the center of controversy

The case has far-reaching implications, with around 2.5 million people set to benefit from the ruling. Fans who purchased the Sunday Ticket package between 2012 and 2022 are eligible for compensation, with residential customers set to receive a larger share of the damages.

As the NFL prepares to appeal the decision, fans will be watching closely to see how the situation unfolds. With the hearing set to take place on July 31, it remains to be seen whether the league’s appeal will be successful.

[1]: “Roger Goodell comments on NFL appealing ‘Sunday Ticket’ verdict to pay over $4.7 billion in class damages” via CNBC

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