MLBPA and FanDuel Settle Player Image Rights Lawsuit
In September, the Major League Baseball Players Association (MLBPA) filed lawsuits against several betting companies, including DraftKings and FanDuel.
MLBPA and FanDuel reach settlement over player image rights.
LISTEN TO THIS ARTICLE:The lawsuits focused on alleged image rights violations, claiming that player names and images were used without proper permission. However, at the end of last week, one of the legal battles reached a resolution.
Settlement Prevents Future Legal Challenges
The lawsuit against FanDuel, filed in New York State court, alleged unauthorized use of player names and likenesses. It argued, “For professional athletes, the ability to control the commercial use of their names, images, and likenesses is a crucial return on their substantial career investment.”
However, after just two months, the matter was settled through a confidential licensing agreement. Both FanDuel and the MLBPA agreed to dismiss the case with prejudice, meaning the lawsuit cannot be refiled in court. Additionally, the settlement stipulates that each party will cover its own legal fees and costs.
While the exact terms of the licensing agreement remain undisclosed, such agreements typically allow companies to legally use athletes’ images and likenesses. Maintaining confidentiality on the agreement may help avoid further complications for both parties.
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Other Lawsuits Remain Active
The MLBPA has also pursued legal action against other betting operators. In New York, the Association filed a similar lawsuit against Underdog Sports, while a federal lawsuit in Philadelphia names DraftKings and bet365 as defendants.
Related: FGCC Sends Cease and Desist Letter to Fantasy Sports Operators
At this point, the status of the lawsuit against Underdog Sports is uncertain, and the cases involving DraftKings and bet365 have yet to make any significant progress. However, the resolution of the FanDuel lawsuit could provide a framework for other operators navigating similar claims.
RELATED TOPICS: Regulation
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