In today's #short, we'll take a look back to 1986, when the USFL filed an antitrust lawsuit against the NFL, claiming that the NFL had engaged in monopolistic practices to stifle competition and harm the USFL. The lawsuit sought significant damages, alleging that the NFL had deliberately attempted to sabotage the USFL by, among other things, persuading major television networks not to broadcast USFL games.
The USFL's legal battle against the NFL garnered significant attention and resulted in a landmark jury verdict. The jury found in favor of the USFL, ruling that the NFL had indeed violated antitrust laws. However, the jury awarded only $1 in damages to the USFL, a symbolic amount that represented the USFL's victory on the legal front but did little to address the league's financial struggles. Following the verdict, the USFL suspended operations and eventually disbanded, marking the end of the league's brief but tumultuous existence. The USFL's lawsuit against the NFL remains a significant moment in the history of American football, raising important discussions about competition, antitrust laws, and the dynamics between rival sports leagues.
HOW THE USFL TRIED TO BREAK UP THE NFL AND CANCEL THEIR TV CONTRACTS
