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ESPN sues Verizon over customizable FiOS TV plan

We knew ESPN wasn't happy with Verizon's recently announced flexible TV plans, and now it is ready to take legal action on the matter. According to CNBC, The Worldwide Leader in Sports is suing Verizon over the FiOS Custom TV package, only days after letting it be known that it objected to it. ESPN isn't alone, either: last week, Fox Sports and NBC also came out against Verizon's offering, which lets subscribers pick channels based on their viewing preferences. In a statement, ESPN said, "We simply ask that Verizon abide by the terms of our contracts." Verizon, meanwhile, has said that FiOS Custom TV does not violate any contract agreements with the TV networks.

"ESPN is at the forefront of embracing innovative ways to deliver high-quality content and value to consumers on multiple platforms, but that must be done in compliance with our agreements. We simply ask that Verizon abide by the terms of our contracts."

Update: Verizon's official statement is below.

"Consumers have spoken loud and clear that they want choice, and the industry should be focused on giving consumers what they want. We are well within our rights under our agreements to offer customers these choices. "

Update: According to the legal summons filed earlier today in a New York Supreme Court, it looks like ESPN is seeking an injunction and damages from Verizon for "an amount consistent with (but not limited to) relevant provisions in the parties' agreements." Citing a breach of contract, which Verizon has denied so far, ESPN states that the carrier violated its obligations under "certain license agreements, supplements and amendments" between the two. At this point, the ball is on Verizon's court.

FINAL Summons With Notice to Verizon 4-26-15