Minister of Economy David Clarinval welcomes the decision of the Belgian Competition Authority (BCA) regarding the takeover of Pukkelpop by Live Nation, following the commitments made to guarantee the festival's independence. It was indeed at the minister's request that the BCA opened this investigation in November 2025. David Clarinval had asked for the consequences of this acquisition to be examined, given Live Nation's already significant presence in the festival sector in Belgium. He was particularly concerned that the takeover of Pukkelpop could reduce competition and diversity in the sector.
David Clarinval, Minister of Economy: "I am pleased with the agreement reached. It was important to ensure that the takeover of Pukkelpop would not lead to excessive concentration in Belgium's festival sector. The commitments made allow the festival's independence, artistic choices and autonomy to be preserved. The offer must remain accessible and diverse. Artists must also be able to benefit from healthy competition between festivals and organisers. It is this diversity that we must preserve."
The commitments made by Live Nation notably provide that the organisation of Pukkelpop will be transferred to an entity controlled by its founder, Chokri Mahassine, who will have full autonomy over the festival's artistic and commercial decisions. These commitments are set for ten years, with the possibility of a five-year extension.
The minister commends the thorough work carried out by the Belgian Competition Authority within a particularly short timeframe, as well as the contribution of the many sector stakeholders consulted during the investigation. This intervention highlights the importance of effective competition in the cultural and events sector, for the benefit of the public, artists and organisers alike.