Live Nation Expands Italian Presence With ForumNet Acquisition

Live Nation has agreed to acquire ForumNet Group, one of Italy’s leading venue operators, from Bastogi S.p.A., further expanding the company’s presence in the European live entertainment market. 

The transaction, which is subject to customary closing conditions, is expected to be completed in April 2026.

The acquisition is anchored by Milan’s Unipol Forum, one of the country’s most prominent indoor arenas. Opened in 1990, the venue has consistently drawn large audiences, welcoming approximately two million visitors each year. 

Over the past three decades, Unipol Forum has hosted performances by major international touring acts as well as many of Italy’s most established artists, including Vasco Rossi, Cesare Cremonini, Tiziano Ferro, and Marco Mengoni.

Beyond live music, Unipol Forum is a key sports venue in Italy. It serves as the home arena for the Armani Olimpia Milano basketball team and is scheduled to host figure skating and short track speed skating events during the 2026 Winter Olympics.

Live Nation says it intends to upgrade fan-facing amenities, improve artist and production facilities, and introduce sustainability initiatives aimed at reducing carbon emissions. According to Live Nation, the planned improvements are designed to enhance the overall experience for audiences and performers while ensuring the venue’s long-term viability.

“We’re proud to welcome these historic Milan venues to Live Nation and invest in their future,” said Roberto de Luca, President of Live Nation Italy. “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.”

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The deal also includes Teatro Repower, an established indoor theater in the Milan area, as well as the management of Carroponte, a popular open-air venue that hosts concerts and cultural events. Together, the venues represent a significant portion of Milan’s live entertainment infrastructure.

Live Nation confirmed that the existing ForumNet management team will continue to operate the venues following the transaction. The company said the venues will remain open to all event organizers and promoters, maintaining longstanding partnerships across the industry.

“The ForumNet venues will continue under an independent management team, maintaining longstanding relationships with all partners and promoters,” de Luca said.

Bastogi Group President Marco Cabassi said the agreement positions the venues for continued success under new ownership. 

“These venues have been at the heart of Milan’s cultural life for decades,” Cabassi said. “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.”