Live Nation Registers $3.8BN Q1 Revenue, Up 12% YoY

Live Nation has delivered its Q1 2026 earnings report, generating $3.8 billion revenue in the first quarter, up 12% vs Q1 2025. It still, however, posted an operating loss of $371 million, impacted by a $450 million legal accrual from its recent antitrust trial.

Q1 concerts:

• Revenue of $2.8 billion, up 12% vs. Q1 2025.

• Adjusted operating income (AOI) of $3 million, and $12 million on a constant currency basis.

• 107 million tickets sold through the end of April, up 11%.

• Over 85% of large venue shows are already booked, signaling strong momentum for the remainder of the year.

Q1 venues:

• The company says it’s on track to grow fans at owned or operated venues by double digits in 2026.

• Strong performance by venues opened in 2025, with the projected 2026 show count at Rogers Stadium in Toronto up 40% compared to its inaugural year.

Q1 ticketing:

• Ticketmaster revenues were up 10% to $765 million.

• AOI of $256 million, up 1%, offset by $30 million in expenses “related to legal and operational improvements.”

Q1 sponsorships:

• Were up 20% against Q1 2025, reaching $259 million.

What they said:

• Michael Rapino, President and CEO: “2026 is off to a powerful start, with first quarter revenue climbing 12% to $3.8 billion. In an increasingly digital and AI-driven world, the global desire for authentic human connection has never been stronger. We are seeing a fundamental shift as fans prioritize the ‘live’ experience – the chance to be physically present with their favorite artists and share that energy with friends and fellow fans in a way a screen simply cannot replicate.”

• He adds: “As we continue to expand our global footprint to meet this growing demand for physical connection, we are well positioned for long-term compounding double-digit growth.”