India Fantasy Sports Market

India Fantasy Sports Market Size and Share:

The India fantasy sports market size was valued at USD 19.56 Billion in 2024. Looking forward, IMARC Group estimates the market to reach USD 407.78 Billion by 2033, exhibiting a CAGR of 38.13% during 2025-2033. North India currently dominates the market, holding a significant market share of 33.2% in 2024. The market is driven by widespread smartphone adoption, affordable internet, and a young, tech-savvy population. Cricket’s dominance and the growing popularity of other sports boost engagement. Regulatory clarity, with fantasy sports classified as skill-based games, has encouraged participation. Attractive promotions, celebrity endorsements, and partnerships with sports leagues enhance visibility. Technological advancements, such as AI and data analytics, improve user experience, while venture capital investments fuel platform growth, expanding the India fantasy sports market share.

The market is primarily driven by the rapid growth of digital infrastructure and smartphone penetration. With increasing internet users and affordable data plans, accessing online gaming platforms has become easier. The internet user base in India has grown from 251.59 million in 2014 to 954.40 million as of 2024, with 95.15% of villages covered with 3G/4G mobile networks, fueling fast-paced digital growth. The increasing popularity of fantasy sports combined with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 14.26% in internet penetration is contributing to user engagement on gaming platforms and new opportunities for digital sports viewing and online contests. The increasing popularity of cricket, coupled with the rise of other sports including football and kabaddi, has further fueled user engagement. Additionally, the younger demographic, which forms a significant portion of the population, is highly inclined toward interactive and skill-based gaming experiences. Promotions by fantasy sports platforms, such as cash prizes and referral bonuses, have also played a crucial role in attracting and retaining users.

In addition, the legal recognition and regulatory clarity surrounding fantasy sports in India are positively influencing the market. The Supreme Court’s ruling categorizing fantasy sports as games of skill has provided legitimacy, encouraging more players to participate. Investments from venture capitalists and partnerships with sports leagues have enhanced the India fantasy sports market growth, enhancing platform credibility. On 1^st May’2025, Endiya Partners, a venture capital firm, collaborated with the Pullela Gopichand Badminton Academy to launch Game On! which is a sports tournament to support India's startup ecosystem, with further expansions expected in Mumbai, Delhi, Hyderabad, and Chennai. With increasing investments by venture capital in sports startups, the fantasy sports industry in India is witnessing growth as a result of growing partnerships with sports leagues, which is increasing engagement and driving innovation in competitive gaming. The rise of influencer marketing and celebrity endorsements has also amplified visibility and trust among users. Moreover, the integration of advanced technologies such as AI and data analytics has improved user experience by offering personalized recommendations and real-time updates, making fantasy sports more engaging and competitive.

India Fantasy Sports Market Trends:

Continual Technological Advancements and Digital Connectivity

As internet penetration has deepened in the country, it has provided a wider audience with access to online platforms. Smartphones and apps have played an instrumental role in this growth. With easy-to-use interfaces, they offer users the convenience to access and manage their fantasy teams from anywhere at any time. The enhanced graphics, real-time updates, and interactive features further augment the user experience. Moreover, with the advent of 4G and 5G technologies, data transmission has become faster and more efficient, enabling real-time tracking of player performances and instant updates in team standings. According to the India Brand Equity Foundation, the country’s internet user base is expected to exceed 900 million by 2025, creating a vast audience for fantasy sports platforms. Cloud technologies ensure data storage is efficient and cost-effective, allowing platforms to manage vast amounts of data effortlessly. Innovations in artificial intelligence and machine learning have also paved the way for predictive analytics tools, providing enthusiasts with insights and strategies, creating a positive India fantasy sports market outlook.

Increasing Sports Consumption and Media Partnerships

As sports leagues around the world gain popularity, so does the desire for fans to engage more deeply with their favorite sports and players. Fantasy sports offer an avenue for this deeper engagement, allowing fans to feel a personal stake in the games they watch. Moreover, media partnerships play an integral role in this driver. This growth is further supported by the rapid growth of India’s sports technology market, which is projected to rise by 85% to reach USD 5.70 Billion by FY29, encompassing apps, devices, and sensors. Major sports broadcasting networks often collaborate with fantasy sports platforms, integrating them into their programming. This symbiotic relationship is beneficial for both, including broadcasters can keep viewers engaged with added layers of interest, while fantasy platforms gain visibility and credibility. According to the India fantasy sports market forecast, it's crucial to recognize the influence of media in shaping consumer behaviors and the potential of strategic partnerships in amplifying market reach.

Monetization Strategies and the Transformation of E-commerce

The rise of e-commerce and digital payment systems has facilitated this shift, making it easier for users to make transactions safely and efficiently. In India, the Ministry of Finance reported that the Unified Payments Interface (UPI) processed INR 23.49 Lakh Crores through 16.58 Billion transactions in October 2024 alone, reflecting a 45% year-on-year growth. With secure online payment gateways, users feel more confident in participating in cash-based leagues. In addition to direct monetization, there's a growing trend of advertising and sponsorships within the fantasy sports domain. Brands view these platforms as an opportunity to reach a dedicated and engaged audience. Furthermore, with data analytics tools, platforms can offer personalized marketing, targeting users based on their preferences and behaviors. This not only increases the potential for sales but enhances the user experience, making advertisements more relevant and less intrusive. For market research professionals, understanding the intertwining of e-commerce, digital advertising, and consumer engagement is vital in predicting market trends and identifying growth opportunities.

India Fantasy Sports Industry Segmentation:

IMARC Group provides an analysis of the key trends in each segment of the India fantasy sports market, along with forecasts at the country and regional levels from 2025-2033. The market has been categorized based on sports type, platform, and demographics.

Analysis by Sports Type:

• Cricket
• Football
• Others

Cricket stands as the largest component in 2024, holding around 85.3% of the market. Cricket is referred as a cultural phenomenon in India. The fervor and dedication of its followers are unparalleled, with major tournaments, including the ICC World Cup, Indian Premier League, Ashes series, and Big Bash League witnessing colossal viewership numbers. The structure of cricket also lends itself exceptionally well to fantasy sports. With various formats, there ‘a multitude of opportunities for sports enthusiasts to engage, strategize, and participate. Each format brings its own challenges and nuances, allowing for diverse team selections, strategies, and points systems. This diversity ensures that the engagement remains consistent and fresh. Moreover, the media coverage of cricket, both in terms of live broadcasting and digital content, is extensive. This constant stream of content, including player interviews, match analyses, and behind-the-scenes glimpses, fosters a deeper connection between fans and players. It also provides fantasy players with insights and data, aiding them in making informed decisions for their virtual teams.

Analysis by Platform:

• Website
• Mobile Application

Mobile application leads the market with around 90.2% of market share in 2024. With billions of users around the world, mobile devices have become the primary interface for many to access the internet, replacing traditional desktops and laptops for numerous online activities. Furthermore, the inherent nature of fantasy sports which involves regular team updates, monitoring player performances, and tracking live scores, requires a platform that offers both convenience and immediacy. Mobile applications fit this bill perfectly. They allow users to access their fantasy teams on-the-go, making swift changes based on real-time events, and staying engaged wherever they might be. Push notifications ensure that users are always informed, prompting timely actions and heightening engagement. Furthermore, the user experience (UX) offered by mobile applications is tailored for smaller screens and touch-based interactions. Intuitive designs, smooth animations, and streamlined processes enhance the overall experience, making it effortless for users to navigate and make decisions.

Analysis by Demographics:

• Under 25 Years
• 25-40 Years
• Above 40 Years

Under 25 years leads the market with around 50.8% of market share in 2024. The dominance of the segment can be primarily attributed to the digital-native nature of this age bracket. Their digital fluency means they are quick to adopt new online trends and platforms, with fantasy sports being no exception. Additionally, this age group is also characterized by its active engagement in social media and online communities. The communal aspects of fantasy sports, which involve creating leagues with friends, challenging peers, and sharing achievements, resonate strongly with them. This social element amplifies their engagement, turning it into not just an individual pastime, but a shared experience that fosters connections and rivalries. Moreover, the under 25 demographic is typically more willing to experiment and take risks. This adventurous spirit is reflected in their readiness to explore diverse strategies in fantasy sports, delve into various sports, and participate in different formats and challenges. Their willingness to invest time in research, watch highlight reels, and stay updated with player statistics showcases their commitment and enthusiasm.

Regional Analysis:

• North India
• West and Central India
• South India
• East India

In 2024, North India accounted for the largest market share of over 33.2%. North India has a rich sporting tradition. Cricket, which forms a significant portion of the fantasy sports market, enjoys an almost religious following in this region. Coupled with the fervor for local sporting leagues and tournaments, there's a ready audience eager to engage with sports on a deeper, more interactive level that fantasy platforms offer. Moreover, infrastructure and technology also play pivotal roles. With the rapid urbanization of North Indian cities and the consequent growth in IT sectors, there's been a significant rise in internet penetration and smartphone adoption. High-speed internet, facilitated by widespread 4G networks, ensures that users can engage with fantasy sports platforms seamlessly. Furthermore, marketing, and promotional activities by fantasy sports platforms have found a receptive audience in North India. Brand endorsements by popular North Indian celebrities and cricketers lend credibility and appeal to these platforms, driving higher registrations and active participation.

Competitive Landscape:

Companies continually invest in developing user-friendly platforms with intuitive interfaces. Regular updates ensure smooth operation, better security, and the incorporation of new features. Furthermore, to retain users, companies are introducing various engagement tools, such as daily challenges, leaderboards, and loyalty programs. They also offer tutorials and resources to help newcomers understand the game better. Therefore, this is also significantly supporting the India fantasy sports market demand. Apart from entry fees for leagues, companies explore other revenue streams such as advertisements, partnerships, and premium features. Some also introduce virtual goods or in-app purchases. Additionally, strategic collaborations with sports leagues, media houses, or data providers are common. These partnerships can provide exclusive content, promotional opportunities, or valuable data for the platforms. In line with this, numerous companies are expanding beyond their home countries, customizing their platforms to cater to local preferences and regulations.

The report provides a comprehensive analysis of the competitive landscape in the India fantasy sports market with detailed profiles of all major companies, including:

• Dream Sports Group
• Mobile Premier League (MPL) (Galactus Funware Technology Private Limited)
• 11 Wickets.com (Ability Games Pvt. Ltd)
• BalleBaazi
• MyTeam11
• MyFab11
• Paytm First Games Pvt. Ltd.
• Fantasy Power 11
• Head Digital Works Pvt Ltd.

Latest News and Developments:

• April 2025: The Karnataka Government announced that it would introduce a whitelist for real money gaming (RMG) platforms, aiming to regulate the online gaming sector by the end of 2025. This initiative would reportedly distinguish between skill-based games and gambling and provisions for age-gating, grievance redressal, and player support systems, enhancing consumer protection. The Federation of Indian Fantasy Sports (FIFS) was also involved in discussions with the state government regarding these regulations.
• February 2025: Times Internet expanded into the fantasy gaming sector with the launch of Cricbuzz11, a new platform offering real-money fantasy cricket contests. The app allowed participants to create virtual teams and compete in contests during major cricket tournaments such as the Champions Trophy and Women's Premier League (WPL).
• November 2024: Dream11 launched 'Guru Home', a platform aimed at empowering 50,000 creators by 2028, with a focus on fantasy sports. The initiative targeted Tier III and IV cities in India and offered a space for creators to share their strategies on team formation and fantasy game insights.

India Fantasy Sports Market Report Scope:

Key Benefits for Stakeholders:

• IMARC’s report offers a comprehensive quantitative analysis of various market segments, historical and current market trends, market forecasts, and dynamics of the India fantasy sports market from 2019-2033.
• The India fantasy sports market research report provides the latest information on the market drivers, challenges, and opportunities in the regional market.
• The study maps the leading, as well as the fastest-growing, regional markets.
• Porter's five forces analysis assist stakeholders in assessing the impact of new entrants, competitive rivalry, supplier power, buyer power, and the threat of substitution. It helps stakeholders to analyze the level of competition within the India fantasy sports industry and its attractiveness.
• Competitive landscape allows stakeholders to understand their competitive environment and provides an insight into the current positions of key players in the market.