Fubo Manages To Block Venu Sports Launch, At Least For Now

Fubo has so far managed to block the launch of Venu Sports after a judge issued a preliminary injunction against Disney, Fox and Warner Bros. Discovery’s sports-streaming service.

As revealed last week during closing arguments, the plan was to launch the new sports streaming service on August 23. With a temporary injunction having now been granted, it remains unclear when exactly the service will launch, if at all.

“Today’s ruling is a victory not only for Fubo but also for consumers. This decision will help ensure that consumers have access to a more competitive marketplace with multiple sports streaming options,” said David Gandler, co-founder and CEO, Fubo.

Fubo has routinely argued that the launch of the service would greatly impact the live TV landscape, potentially putting businesses, including Fubo, at risk. Fubo has also routinely made the case that the lack of competition within the space would eventually impact on customers, leading to higher prices.

“But our fight continues. Fubo has said all along that we seek equal treatment from these media giants, and a level playing field in our industry. The proposed joint venture was only the latest example of anticompetitive practices that The Walt Disney Company, FOX Corp. and Warner Bros. Discovery have consistently engaged in for many years. We believe these practices monopolize the market, stifle competition and cheat consumers from deserved choice,” Gandler added.

Disney, Fox and Warner Bros. Discovery have repeatedly argued that Venu Sports is a pro-consumer solution, due to its targeting of those that don’t and have never paid for a live TV package.

As to be expected, the thee companies also disagree with today’s ruling and have vowed to appeal the decision.

So far, it would seem that the courts have agreed with Fubo. In issuing the junction, Judge Margaret Garnett indicated that Fubo would likely succeed at trial, due to Venu Sports being the only service of its kind, and the lack of competition being a direct result of decisions made by the owners of the joint venture.