A major legal dispute is unfolding in the sports betting sector as Altenar files lawsuits against Sportradar in both London and New Jersey. The case centers on access to critical sports data, with Altenar alleging it was unfairly blocked from obtaining key feeds supplied by IMG Arena. The company is seeking substantial financial damages, claiming anti-competitive behavior.
Altenar claims that Sportradar used its market dominance to prevent Altenar from extending its contract with IMG Arena for official data. This allegation goes beyond a commercial disagreement and violates competition laws that provide fair access to the marketplace.
The dispute arises shortly after Sportradar’s acquisition of IMG Arena, an acquisition that was reviewed and approved by the regulatory authorities. However, Altenar alleges that Sportradar interfered with Altenar’s right to the official data before the acquisition closed, while both companies were expected to operate independently and under the conditions of the regulator.
Altenar spokesperson said:
Sportradar is trying to maintain its market dominance by unfairly eliminating its competitors. It is relying on its monopoly on sports data to squash businesses with a competing offer, despite previously decrying other companies for doing exactly the same. We remain open to discussions with Sportradar, but its unilateral and aggressive actions have left us with no choice but to take legal action.
Each of the parties has taken a strong position in the matter. According to Altenar, Sportradar is attempting to consolidate its control over high-value sports data and limit competition by denying smaller sports data suppliers access to this data.
Sportradar, on the other hand, denies the allegations, claims that the allegations are without basis, and has stated that it will vigorously defend itself in court.
Sportradar spokesperson said:
While we prefer not to comment on pending litigation, we strongly disagree with the claims made by Altenar, which we believe are without merit and contain numerous inaccuracies. Sportradar will address these through the legal process. We encourage stakeholders to rely on our public disclosures and SEC filings for a complete and accurate view of our business.
The case reflects continued concern over the concentration of sports data suppliers, where a small number of suppliers control access to the official feeds of the major league sports. The outcome of the case could have significant and lasting impacts on competition, partnerships, and distribution of data across the global betting marketplace.
