MLB Players Association Ends FanDuel Lawsuit, Strikes New Licensing Partnership

MLB Players Association Ends FanDuel Lawsuit, Strikes New Licensing Partnership

By Michael Thompson

November 27, 2024 at 06:39 PM

The Major League Baseball Players Association's commercial affiliate, MLB Players Inc., has reached a licensing agreement with FanDuel Sportsbook, leading to the withdrawal of their September lawsuit against the operator.

MLB stadium filled with spectators

MLB stadium filled with spectators

This nonexclusive product and marketing licensing agreement, facilitated by OneTeam Partners, will enable FanDuel to develop player-centric features across its online sportsbook platform starting in 2025 in both the US and Canada.

The original lawsuit, filed in the New York Supreme Court, accused FanDuel and Underdog Fantasy of using players' names and likenesses without permission. While the FanDuel dispute is now resolved, the lawsuit against Underdog Fantasy remains active, as do similar legal actions against DraftKings Inc. and Bet365 Group Ltd. in Philadelphia court.

MLBPA Executive Director Tony Clark emphasized that this agreement expands their group licensing program into new revenue categories. FanDuel President Christian Genetski expressed enthusiasm about developing player-centric opportunities across their platforms.

OneTeam President Frank Arthofer noted that this partnership will establish new standards for online sports betting product player collaborations, creating value for all involved parties.

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