EU court adviser backs regulators in Meta challenge over Facebook data demands

Summary

An adviser to Europe’s top court has recommended rejecting Meta’s appeal against EU antitrust data requests, a step that could reinforce regulators’ investigative powers over large digital platforms.

LUXEMBOURG, Feb. 26, 2026 — An adviser to the Court of Justice of the European Union has recommended that judges dismiss appeals by Meta challenging European Union antitrust information requests linked to its Facebook operations.

Advocate General Athanasios Rantos said there was no legal error in earlier rulings by the EU’s General Court, which upheld the European Commission’s demands for data during competition investigations.

Opinion supports earlier rulings

The Advocate General found that the Commission’s requests were proportionate and accompanied by sufficient safeguards, rejecting Meta’s argument that the scope of the information sought was excessive.

While the opinion is not binding, the court’s judges often follow such recommendations when issuing final rulings.

A decision from the court is expected in the coming months.

Part of broader scrutiny of digital platforms

The dispute arises from EU competition probes into Meta’s practices, including those related to online marketplaces and data use.

European regulators have intensified oversight of large technology companies, using antitrust law and digital regulations to examine potential market dominance and data practices.

Potential implications

If the court ultimately follows the adviser’s recommendation, it would affirm the Commission’s authority to request extensive information in competition investigations.

Such a ruling could influence how future probes into digital advertising, platform ecosystems, and online marketplaces are conducted.

Why this matters

The case highlights the EU’s increasingly assertive stance toward regulating large technology platforms and underscores the legal risks companies face in one of the world’s most stringent regulatory environments.

A ruling backing regulators could shape investigative standards and compliance obligations across the tech sector.

FAQs

Q1. What is the Advocate General’s role?

They provide an independent legal opinion to assist the court, though judges are not required to follow it.

Q2. What is Meta challenging?

EU antitrust requests for information related to its business practices.

Q3. Does this mean Meta lost the case?

Not yet. The opinion is advisory, and a final judgment is still pending.

Q4. What happens if the court agrees with the adviser?

The Commission’s authority to request broad data in competition probes would be reinforced.

Q5. When will the final ruling come?

The court is expected to deliver its decision in the coming months.