MFE-MediaForEurope Files Copyright Lawsuit Against Perplexity AI
MFE-MediaForEurope (MFE), a major European media and communications company, has initiated legal proceedings against U.S.-based artificial intelligence firm Perplexity AI. The lawsuit, filed at the Civil Court of Rome, alleges unauthorized use of audiovisual and film content to train Perplexity AI’s systems. Marketscreener reported on the legal action on March 22, 2026.
Background on MFE-MediaForEurope
MFE-MediaForEurope N.V., formerly known as Mediaset Group, is a Dutch media company majority-owned by the Berlusconi family’s Fininvest Group. Wikipedia details the company’s evolution and structure. MFE operates primarily in free-to-air and pay-TV production and distribution, film and multimedia production, and advertising sales. Its key subsidiaries include Mediaset S.p.A. (Italy) and Mediaset España. Wikipedia
MFE too holds a 75.61% stake in ProSiebenSat.1. MFE MediaForEurope. The company’s activities span television, radio, digital content, and advertising, reaching audiences across Italy and Spain. MFE MediaForEurope
The Copyright Dispute
Reti Televisive Italiane (RTI) and Medusa Film, both subsidiaries of MFE-MediaForEurope, claim that Perplexity AI utilized their copyrighted audiovisual and film content without permission to develop its artificial intelligence systems. Marketscreener. This action reflects a growing trend of media companies asserting their intellectual property rights in the face of AI development.
Implications for the AI Industry
This lawsuit is part of a broader conversation about the use of copyrighted material in the training of AI models. The outcome of this case could set a precedent for how AI companies navigate copyright law and obtain licenses for content used in their systems. Similar legal challenges are emerging as AI technology rapidly advances and relies heavily on vast datasets of existing content.
MFE’s Financial Overview
As of 2024, MFE reported full-year results and published an annual report. MFE MediaForEurope. The company’s financial calendar includes an interim financial report scheduled for September 30, 2025. MFE MediaForEurope. MFE is listed on the Borsa Italiana (BIT) under the tickers MFEB, MFEA, and MFEA-IT, and also trades on the Madrid Stock Exchange (MAD) as MFEA-ES. MFE MediaForEurope