Live Nation Entertainment has agreed to acquire ForumNet Group, an Italian venue operator, marking the company’s third significant purchase in less than a month as it expands its international footprint.
The deal, announced Tuesday (February 3), adds the Unipol Forum indoor arena in Milan to Live Nation’s portfolio. Financial terms of the acquisition were not disclosed.
The transaction follows Live Nation’s January agreement to acquire Paris La Défense Arena in France from Ovalto and its purchase of a majority stake in Peruvian promoter Bizarro Peru in late January.
ForumNet Group owns and operates Unipol Forum, a 15,800-capacity arena that has drawn about 2 million visitors annually since opening in 1990. The venue has hosted global superstars and Italian icons, including Vasco, Cremonini, Tiziano Ferro and Marco Mengoni.
Unipol Forum has also hosted the Armani Olimpia Milano basketball team and will stage figure and short track speed skating at the 2026 Winter Olympics.
The acquisition also encompasses Teatro Repower, with a capacity of up to 1,700, and management of Carroponte, an open-air venue with a capacity up to 12,000.
Live Nation plans to invest in upgrades at Unipol Forum to improve fan amenities and artist and production facilities. The company said it will introduce sustainability measures aimed at reducing carbon emissions. The improvements are intended to build on the venue’s profile following the Olympics.
Roberto de Luca, President, Live Nation Italy, said: “We’re proud to welcome these historic Milan venues to Live Nation and invest in their future.
“The Forum has hosted some of the greatest Italian and international artists and we look forward to creating even more opportunities for artists and fans.
“We’re proud to welcome these historic Milan venues to Live Nation and invest in their future.”
Roberto de Luca, Live Nation Italy
“The ForumNet venues will continue under an independent management team, maintaining longstanding relationships with all partners and promoters.”
Marco Cabassi, President, Bastogi Group, added: “These venues have been at the heart of Milan’s cultural life for decades. Partnering with Live Nation ensures they will continue to thrive, welcoming fans and artists from both Italy and around the world for years to come.”
Italy’s live entertainment sector generated €4.5 billion ($5.3 billion) in revenue in 2024, according to Live Nation.
The transaction is subject to standard closing conditions and is expected to be completed in April 2026.
Live Nation’s acquisition spree comes as the company strengthens its position in Europe and Latin America.
In addition to the recent acquisitions in France and Peru, the company recently finalized a 10-year agreement worth $110 million with Argentine professional sports club Club Atlético River Plate for exclusive concert access and naming rights at the Mâs Monumental Stadium in Buenos Aires.
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