From 2015 to 2022, the number of fantasy sports players in the United States rose from ** million to **** million. In 2022, the total number of fantasy sports players in North America reached **** million, showing that U.S.-based players made up just over ** percent of all North American players.

A fantasy sport is a type of game, typically played online, where participants put together imaginary or virtual teams composed of proxies of real players of a professional sport. These teams compete based on the statistical performance of those players in actual games. Sometimes money can be wagered and won, depending on the success of the fantasy team. During a survey in May 2021, only *** percent of U.S. respondents aged 65 and over stated that they played fantasy sports. Comparatively, over ** percent respondents between the ages of ** and ** said that they participated in fantasy sports.

In January 2025, a survey was conducted to determine how often adults in the United States engaged in fantasy sports. The majority of respondents, ** percent, stated that they never bet on fantasy sports. Meanwhile, ***** percent of respondents stated that they bet at least once a month.

As per Cognitive Market Research's latest published report, the Global Daily Fantasy Sports market size was USD 5,992.74 Million in 2017 and it is forecasted to reach USD 14,875.92 Million by 2029. Daily Fantasy Sports Industry's Compound Annual Growth Rate will be 8.95% from 2023 to 2030.

The North America Daily Fantasy Sports market size will be USD 5,022.11 Million by 2029.

Market Drivers For Daily Fantasy Sports

Growing adoption of smartphones coupled with rising internet connectivity

Over the last few years, there is a rapid increase in smart device adoption and internet penetration. Smart devices offer flexibility to customers on a smartphone, laptop, desktop, or tablet. With these devices, users are simply able to access several daily fantasy sports apps and websites.

According to a study, the number of unique mobile internet users in 2020 was 4.28 billion, and more than 90% of the worldwide internet population has access to the internet through a mobile device. Until March 2021, the internet penetration rate in Asia was at 62%, 88% in Europe, and 90% in North America.

Similarly, according to the study, the current global smartphone user population is 6.648 billion, which indicates that 83.72 percent of the world’s population possesses a smartphone. This statistic has increased significantly from 2016, when there were just 3.668 billion users, accounting for 49.40 percent of the world’s population at the time.

Furthermore, the usage of tablets, laptops, and desktops is also raising. According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, desktop or laptop computers are used by 91% of connected households.

As technology advances, various organizations are releasing numerous daily fantasy games that can play online. This enables several people to entertain themselves as well as to earn money. In this app or website, users can play a wide range of fantasy games, including cricket, hockey, football, basketball, and kabaddi. This promotes market expansion.

According to data shared by Indian Super League (ISL) its fantasy football players hail from India, Nepal, Bangladesh, and the UK, with 86% of the traffic coming from mobile phones. As a result, the growing adoption of smart devices coupled with rising internet connectivity drives the growth of the daily fantasy sports market.

Rising number of daily fantasy sports players

As online gaming and associated activities gain traction, the online fantasy sports market is expected to see a considerable increase in income. The popularity of fantasy games has surged with the introduction of various applications and websites. Daily fantasy games, in particular, are gaining popularity, and many individuals are drawn to them. This increases the popularity of daily fantasy sports.

Daily fantasy games are a popular type of online fantasy gaming in which users pay an entrance fee to compete for cash rewards based on the performance of professional athletes whom users choose and then track in their respective professional sports events.

People are drawn to daily fantasy games for a variety of reasons. The primary reason for this is that players can win real money. According to data, one-third (34%) of urban Indians have played online fantasy sports for money in June 2021. There is real money on the line, and anybody has a chance to win. Some players even make a full-time career by joining competitions. It's difficult to say how much profit the top fantasy sports players make, but there's evidence that they might be earning at least $10,000 every week.

As a result, many players want to participate in daily fantasy games. According to the Fantasy Sports and Gaming Association, approximately 59 million individuals in the United States and Canada participate in fantasy sports. It also claims that 20 million individuals in India play fantasy games, with the amount expected to rise to 150 million by 2022. According to the Fantasy Sports Trade Association, the number of fantasy sports participants has increased from 500,000 in 1988 to 59.3 million in 2017, with the business being worth $7.22 billion (FSTA).

Similarly, key players are participating in a variety of measures to increase player numbers. For instance, to increase its appeal to women, Disney introduced a fantasy

league game for ABC's "Bachelorette" show in 2017. More than 700,000 individuals have playe...

The Market Research Report Covers Fantasy Sports Companies and is Segmented by Fantasy Sports Type (Traditional Fantasy Sports, Daily Fantasy Sports & Ancillaries), Sporting Type (Football, Baseball, Basketball, Others), and Country. The market size and forecasts are provided in terms of value (USD million) for all the above segments.

In a 2022 survey, ** percent of respondents said that they had never taken part in a fantasy sports league. Among the remaining ** percent of survey participants, **** were actively engaged in playing in a fantasy sports league, while the other **** hadn't played in a fantasy sports league for the past 12 months.

The Fantasy Sports Market report segments the industry into By Type (Football, Baseball, Cricket, Basketball, Car Racing, Other Types), By Platform (Website, Mobile Application), By Demographics (Under 25 Years, Between 25 and 40 Years, Above 40 Years), By Application (Individual Competition, Team Competition), and By Geography (North America, Europe, Asia, Australia and New Zealand, Latin America, Middle East and Africa).

Snapshot img

Fantasy Sports Market Size 2025-2029

The fantasy sports market size is forecast to increase by USD 10.13 billion, at a CAGR of 7.1% between 2024 and 2029.

Major Market Trends & Insights

North America dominated the market and accounted for a 35% growth during the forecast period.
By the Product - Fantasy soccer segment was valued at USD 8.78 billion in 2023
By the Application - Individual Competition segment accounted for the largest market revenue share in 2023

Market Size & Forecast

Market Opportunities: USD 56.96 billion
Market Future Opportunities: USD USD 10.13 billion 
CAGR : 7.1%
North America: Largest market in 2023

Market Summary

The market continues to expand its reach and influence across various industries, with an increasing number of businesses recognizing its potential for customer engagement and revenue generation. According to recent studies, the market is projected to experience significant growth, with a substantial increase in user adoption rates. For instance, The market size was valued at approximately USD15 billion in 2020, and it is anticipated to expand at a steady pace in the coming years. Fantasy sports platforms have gained popularity in sectors such as media, entertainment, and consumer goods, offering unique opportunities for brand promotion and fan engagement. In the media industry, fantasy sports have become a staple for sports broadcasters and networks, providing an additional revenue stream through advertising and subscription fees. Meanwhile, consumer goods companies have leveraged fantasy sports to boost sales and customer loyalty by offering exclusive promotions and discounts to participants. Moreover, the integration of artificial intelligence and machine learning algorithms in fantasy sports platforms has led to enhanced user experience and personalized recommendations, further fueling the market's growth. Despite the ongoing challenges and debates surrounding the potential negative effects of fantasy sports on health and well-being, the market's continuous evolution and expanding applications make it an exciting and dynamic space to watch.

What will be the Size of the Fantasy Sports Market during the forecast period?

Explore market size, adoption trends, and growth potential for fantasy sports market Request Free SampleThe market experiences consistent growth, with current participation estimated at approximately 60 million people worldwide. This figure represents a significant increase from previous years, underscoring the market's continuous evolution. Looking ahead, industry experts project a future growth rate of around 15%, driven by advancements in technology and user experience. Fantasy sports platforms have become essential tools for enthusiasts, offering features such as player performance metrics, injury reporting, and points-per-game scoring. These platforms employ game theory applications, tournament formats, and roster optimization to create engaging user experiences. Value-based drafting and optimal lineup generation are critical components, as is risk assessment modeling and prize structures. Transaction processing, matchup analysis, and chat functionality further enhance the user experience. Expert advice and user engagement metrics are also essential, with fraud detection systems ensuring fair play. The market caters to both season-long leagues and daily fantasy sports, providing league management tools and statistical modeling to optimize lineup construction and salary cap management. Machine learning algorithms and probability calculations are integral to player projections and draft strategy, while scoring system design and ownership percentage rankings facilitate informed decision-making. The industry's diverse offerings cater to a wide range of sports, from football and basketball to baseball and soccer.

How is this Fantasy Sports Industry segmented?

The fantasy sports industry research report provides comprehensive data (region-wise segment analysis), with forecasts and estimates in 'USD million' for the period 2025-2029, as well as historical data from 2019-2023 for the following segments. ProductFantasy soccerFantasy baseballFantasy basketballFantasy footballOthersApplicationIndividual CompetitionTeam CompetitionDemographicUnder 25 YearsBetween 25 and 40 YearsAbove 40 YearsDietary PreferenceVeganGluten-FreeKetoTarget AudienceBusy ProfessionalsHealth EnthusiastsGeographyNorth AmericaUSCanadaEuropeFranceGermanyItalyUKMiddle East and AfricaEgyptKSAOmanUAEAPACChinaIndiaJapanSouth AmericaArgentinaBrazilRest of World (ROW)

By Product Insights

The fantasy soccer segment is estimated to witness significant growth during the forecast period.

In the dynamic and continually evolving realm of fantasy sports, soccer holds a significant position. Participants construct imaginary teams consisting of real-life soccer pla

Fantasy Sports Betting Market Outlook

The global fantasy sports betting market size was valued at approximately USD 22.31 billion in 2023 and is projected to reach around USD 48.89 billion by 2032, growing at a CAGR of about 9% from 2024 to 2032. This remarkable growth can be attributed to the increasing popularity of fantasy sports across the globe, coupled with the rising penetration of smartphones and the internet. Fantasy sports betting has gained immense traction among sports enthusiasts, driven by the thrill of competition, the prospect of monetary rewards, and the integration of advanced technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI) and blockchain which enhance user experience and security.

One of the primary growth factors for the fantasy sports betting market is the rising consumer inclination towards online gaming and betting platforms. The integration of AI and machine learning in these platforms has not only enhanced user engagement but also provided more accurate predictive analytics, leading to higher user retention rates. Furthermore, the increasing number of strategic partnerships and collaborations between sports leagues and betting platforms is significantly driving market growth. These partnerships help in expanding the user base and offer exclusive content, enhancing the overall appeal of fantasy sports betting.

The proliferation of smartphones and high-speed internet has also played a pivotal role in the expansion of the fantasy sports betting market. With the majority of the global population now having access to mobile devices and affordable internet connectivity, participating in fantasy sports has become more convenient than ever. Additionally, the advent of mobile applications with user-friendly interfaces has made it easier for users to engage in fantasy sports betting on the go, further boosting market growth. The trend is particularly evident among younger demographics who are tech-savvy and more inclined towards digital entertainment options.

Regulatory changes and legislative advancements in various regions have also contributed to market growth. Countries that have legalized and regulated sports betting have seen a surge in the number of participants, leading to increased revenue generation. The regulatory framework not only ensures fair play and transparency but also boosts consumer confidence, thereby attracting more users to the platform. For instance, the legalization of sports betting in the United States has opened up significant opportunities for market players, with numerous states now permitting online fantasy sports betting.

Regionally, North America holds the largest share of the fantasy sports betting market, primarily due to the high adoption rate of digital platforms and favorable regulatory environment. The United States, in particular, has emerged as a key market, with a substantial portion of the population actively participating in fantasy sports betting. The Asia Pacific region is expected to witness the highest growth rate during the forecast period, driven by the increasing internet penetration, rising disposable incomes, and growing popularity of sports events. Additionally, the burgeoning esports industry in Asia Pacific is likely to further propel market growth in the region.

Platform Analysis

The fantasy sports betting market is segmented by platform into mobile and desktop. The mobile segment holds a dominant position in the market, owing to the widespread use of smartphones and the increasing availability of mobile applications for fantasy sports betting. The convenience of accessing fantasy sports platforms anytime and anywhere has significantly contributed to the growth of the mobile segment. Moreover, mobile applications often come with enhanced features such as real-time updates, push notifications, and user-friendly interfaces, which enhance the overall user experience and engagement.

On the other hand, the desktop segment, while not as dominant as mobile, still holds a significant share of the market. Desktop platforms offer a more comprehensive and detailed view of the fantasy sports betting environment, which is particularly appealing to professional and serious fantasy sports players who value in-depth analysis and larger screens for better visualization. Additionally, desktops provide a more stable and secure environment for financial transactions, which is a crucial factor for users betting substantial amounts of money.

The integration of advanced technologies such as AI and blockchain in both mobile and desktop platforms has further propelled market

According to a 2021 survey, the majority of fantasy sports players in the United States were male, making up ** percent of the survey sample. Meanwhile, women accounted for ********* of fantasy sports players in the U.S.

The North American Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS) market, valued at $13.21 billion in 2025, is projected to experience robust growth, driven by increasing smartphone penetration, rising disposable incomes, and the growing popularity of casual and competitive gaming. The market's Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 12.90% from 2019 to 2024 suggests a significant expansion in the coming years, with the forecast period (2025-2033) poised to witness even further acceleration. Key drivers include innovative game formats, strategic partnerships with professional sports leagues, and the enhanced user experience offered by DFS platforms. The segment breakdown reveals that Traditional Fantasy Sports and Daily Fantasy Sports hold significant market share, with Football, Basketball, and Baseball leading the sports category. Major players like DraftKings, FanDuel, Yahoo Fantasy Sports, CBS Sports, and ESPN are aggressively competing for market dominance through technological advancements, marketing initiatives, and strategic acquisitions. The strong regulatory environment in North America, particularly in the United States, provides stability and fosters investor confidence, further supporting market growth. The sustained growth trajectory of the North American DFS market is expected to continue throughout the forecast period. Factors such as increased accessibility through mobile apps, targeted marketing campaigns to attract new user segments, and the integration of esports into the DFS landscape will contribute to this expansion. However, regulatory challenges in certain regions, potential competition from other forms of entertainment, and the need to address concerns about responsible gaming will be key factors shaping the market's future. The dominance of established players, while ensuring market stability, also presents a challenge to smaller entrants. Future growth will depend on innovative game designs, superior user interfaces, and adept marketing strategies aimed at cultivating and retaining a diverse customer base. Recent developments include: November 2022- In Maryland, FanDuel Group launched a sportsbook. Maryland sports fans have access to the FanDuel Sportsbook app for iOS and Android as well as desktop gaming. The FanDuel Sportsbook delivers its top-tier online sports betting experience to Maryland's fervent sports fans, who can now bet on professional and collegiate football, basketball, baseball, hockey, golf, MMA, boxing, soccer, and tennis across the state with several betting and payment methods. With various essential features, the FanDuel Sportsbook app is straightforward, safe, and practical., October 2022- GridRival has launched its highly anticipated Daily Fantasy Sports offering for users in 23 states across the United States. GridRival, a fantasy motorsports app that currently offers games based on the Formula One and MotoGP series, has a user base of over 200,000 motorsports fans thanks to its combination of engaging fantasy league gameplay, detailed performance data, in-depth research tools, and native social functionality., January 2022- Draftskings Inc. launched its mobile and online sportsbook in New York. The company planned to be one of the first to throw in the empire state. The launch coincides with the NFL Playoffs, one of the busiest times of the year for betting activity.. Key drivers for this market are: Regulatory & legal changes legalizing Fantasy Sports in more than 80% states in the US, Targeted advertising by major Fantasy Sports vendors among millennials; Growth in Sporting events & aggressive reactivation programs initiated by incumbents. Potential restraints include: Regulatory & legal changes legalizing Fantasy Sports in more than 80% states in the US, Targeted advertising by major Fantasy Sports vendors among millennials; Growth in Sporting events & aggressive reactivation programs initiated by incumbents. Notable trends are: Daily Fantasy Sports to Dominate the Market.

The global fantasy sports market is estimated to be worth 22.78 billion in 2025, and is projected to grow at a CAGR of 13.2% over the forecast period. The market is driven by factors such as the increasing popularity of sports betting, the rise of online gaming, and the growing number of casual users. The fantasy sports market is segmented into application, type, and region. Based on application, the market is divided into casual users and betting users. The betting users segment is expected to grow at a higher CAGR during the forecast period, due to the increasing legalization of sports betting in various countries. Based on type, the market is divided into fantasy football, fantasy hockey, fantasy baseball, fantasy soccer, fantasy basketball, and others. The fantasy football segment is expected to hold the largest market share during the forecast period. In terms of regions, the North American region is expected to be the largest market for fantasy sports, followed by Europe and Asia Pacific. The North American region is expected to continue to dominate the market during the forecast period, due to the popularity of sports betting and the presence of a large number of fantasy sports platforms. The Asia Pacific region is expected to grow at a higher CAGR during the forecast period, due to the increasing number of casual users and the growth of online gaming in the region. Key players in the fantasy sports market include FanDuel, DraftKings, Yahoo, ESPN, CBS, NFL Fantasy, Fox Sports Fantasy Football, MyFantasyLeague, Bovada, Sportech, Fantrax, and StarsDraft. These companies are investing heavily in product innovation and marketing campaigns to gain market share.

Fantasy Sports Market Outlook

According to our latest research, the global fantasy sports market size reached USD 29.4 billion in 2024, reflecting robust growth driven by increasing digital adoption and the rising popularity of sports-based entertainment worldwide. The market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 13.7% from 2025 to 2033, reaching a forecasted value of USD 92.3 billion by 2033. This impressive expansion is fueled by technological advancements, growing smartphone penetration, and evolving consumer preferences for interactive and immersive experiences in sports engagement.

One of the primary growth factors for the fantasy sports market is the surge in internet connectivity and mobile device usage globally. With the proliferation of affordable smartphones and high-speed internet, users can now access fantasy sports platforms seamlessly, regardless of their location. This accessibility has democratized participation, enabling fans from diverse demographics to actively engage in fantasy leagues. Furthermore, the integration of real-time data analytics and AI-driven insights has enhanced user experience, making team selection, performance tracking, and in-game strategies more interactive and data-driven. This technological integration not only attracts seasoned sports enthusiasts but also draws in new users seeking an engaging and competitive environment.

Another significant driver is the increasing popularity of major sporting events and leagues, which has a direct positive impact on the fantasy sports ecosystem. Global events such as the FIFA World Cup, the Indian Premier League (IPL), the National Football League (NFL), and the NBA have witnessed exponential viewership, translating into higher user engagement on fantasy platforms. Brands and sponsors are leveraging this trend by partnering with fantasy sports companies to enhance fan engagement and brand visibility. Additionally, the gamification of sports through fantasy leagues allows users to test their knowledge, compete with peers, and win rewards, further incentivizing participation and boosting market growth.

The evolving regulatory landscape is also shaping the future of the fantasy sports market. Several countries are recognizing fantasy sports as a game of skill rather than chance, leading to favorable regulatory frameworks that encourage innovation and investment. This legal clarity has attracted significant venture capital and strategic partnerships, fostering the development of advanced platforms with enhanced security, transparency, and user trust. However, regulatory challenges persist in certain regions, necessitating ongoing dialogue between industry stakeholders and policymakers to ensure responsible growth and user protection.

From a regional perspective, North America continues to dominate the fantasy sports market, accounting for the largest share in 2024, followed by Asia Pacific and Europe. The North American market benefits from a mature sports culture, high digital literacy, and established leagues, while Asia Pacific is witnessing rapid growth due to its large, young population and increasing adoption of digital entertainment platforms. Europe is also emerging as a key market, driven by the popularity of football and cricket-based fantasy leagues. The Middle East & Africa and Latin America are gradually gaining traction, supported by improving internet infrastructure and rising interest in sports-based gaming.

Platform Analysis

The platform segment of the fantasy sports market is bifurcated into web-based and mobile-based platforms, each playing a pivotal role in shaping user engagement and market dynamics. Web-based platforms were the initial drivers of the fantasy sports industry, offering comprehensive interfaces and robust functionalities catering to desktop users. These platforms continue to attract a significant user base, particularly among older demographics and traditional fantasy sports enthusiasts who prefer detailed analytics, in-depth research tools, and multi-league management features. The web-based segment

According to a 2025 survey on the gender distribution of fantasy sports engagement in the United States, the share of male adults playing fantasy sports at least once a month totaled ** percent. Meanwhile, ** percent of women in the U.S. have never engaged in fantasy sports.

Online Fantasy Sport Games Market Outlook

The global market size for online fantasy sport games was valued at USD 23.5 billion in 2023, and it is projected to reach USD 57.6 billion by 2032, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 10.5% during the forecast period. The growth of this market can be attributed to increasing internet penetration, the rising popularity of sports, and the expanding base of smartphone users worldwide.

One primary growth factor driving the online fantasy sport games market is the increasing inclination towards digital entertainment. With the proliferation of smartphones and high-speed internet, more consumers are turning towards online platforms for entertainment, including fantasy sports. Fantasy sports platforms not only provide a source of entertainment but also offer an engaging way for sports enthusiasts to participate in their favorite games. This surge in digital consumption is further propelled by advancements in technology, such as augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR), enhancing the user experience.

Another significant growth factor is the evolving landscape of sports betting and gambling regulations. Several countries are recognizing and legalizing online fantasy sports as a game of skill rather than chance, which is leading to a surge in the number of users and platforms. This regulatory shift is opening up new markets and creating opportunities for both established players and new entrants. Additionally, the increasing number of sponsorships and partnerships between fantasy sports platforms and sports leagues is boosting the visibility and credibility of these platforms.

The demographic changes, particularly the rising disposable income and the increasing participation of younger age groups, are also contributing to market growth. Millennials and Generation Z, who are more tech-savvy and comfortable with digital platforms, form a significant portion of the user base. This demographic is more likely to engage with fantasy sports, driven by their interest in sports and competitive gaming. Moreover, the social aspect of fantasy sports, which allows users to interact and compete with friends and players worldwide, is another appealing factor.

Regionally, North America holds a significant share of the online fantasy sport games market, driven by the presence of major sports leagues and a high level of internet penetration. The Asia Pacific region is expected to witness substantial growth during the forecast period, attributed to the increasing number of smartphone users, rising middle-class population, and growing popularity of sports like cricket and football. Europe is also a promising market, with a growing user base and favorable regulatory environment.

Game Type Analysis

The online fantasy sport games market can be segmented by game type into football, cricket, basketball, baseball, and others. Football holds the largest share in this segment due to its global popularity. The widespread fan base, coupled with the numerous football leagues and tournaments, makes it the most engaging and profitable segment. European countries, in particular, have a high adoption rate of fantasy football, contributing significantly to the market.

Cricket is another major segment, especially in countries like India, Australia, and England. The Indian Premier League (IPL) and other domestic leagues have significantly boosted the popularity of fantasy cricket. The involvement of major cricketing events and tournaments throughout the year keeps the users engaged and contributes to the segment’s growth. The cricket segment is expected to see robust growth in the coming years, driven by the increasing number of cricket fans and the expansion of fantasy platforms in cricket-dominated regions.

Basketball and baseball are also important segments, with a significant user base in North America. The National Basketball Association (NBA) and Major League Baseball (MLB) have a large following, and fantasy leagues based on these sports attract a considerable number of participants. The integration of fantasy sports with live sports betting in the US is further enhancing the market prospects for these segments. The continuous engagement provided by seasonal leagues and high-profile matches ensures sustained interest among users.

The ‘Others’ category includes sports like golf, hockey, and motorsports, which have niche but growing audiences. These sports are gradually gaining traction in the fantasy sports domain due to targeted marketing efforts and th

The global fantasy sports market, valued at $24.76 billion in 2025, is projected to experience robust growth, driven by a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.1% from 2025 to 2033. This expansion is fueled by several key factors. Increasing smartphone penetration and readily available high-speed internet access have significantly broadened the market's reach, particularly among younger demographics who are digitally native and enthusiastic about sports. The engaging nature of fantasy sports, combining strategic decision-making with the thrill of real-world sporting events, continues to attract a large and passionate player base. Furthermore, innovative platform features like live scoring, interactive communities, and the integration of esports are enhancing the user experience and fostering greater engagement. The market is segmented by product type (Fantasy Football, Fantasy Baseball, Fantasy Basketball, Fantasy Soccer, and Others) and platform (Mobile Applications and Websites), with mobile applications showing significant growth due to their accessibility and convenience. Competition within the market is intense, with established players like DraftKings and FanDuel vying for market share alongside emerging innovative startups. Strategic partnerships with sports leagues and teams, along with aggressive marketing campaigns, are pivotal strategies employed by these companies to attract and retain users. While the market faces challenges such as regulatory uncertainties in certain regions and concerns over responsible gaming practices, the overall trajectory suggests a sustained period of growth. The North American market, specifically the US, currently dominates the fantasy sports landscape due to established leagues and high sports engagement. However, rapid growth is anticipated in the Asia-Pacific region, particularly in India and China, fueled by rising disposable incomes and burgeoning internet penetration. Europe is also demonstrating steady growth, driven by the popularity of major football leagues and increasing interest in fantasy sports across multiple sports disciplines. The strategic expansion of established players into new geographical markets, combined with the emergence of localized fantasy sports platforms tailored to regional sports preferences, is further accelerating this expansion. The diversification of fantasy sports offerings, including daily fantasy sports, season-long leagues, and innovative game formats, is expected to contribute significantly to overall market expansion over the forecast period. A focus on responsible gaming practices and stricter regulations regarding player protection will be crucial for the long-term health and sustainability of this expanding industry.

The global market for fantasy sports software and platforms is projected to reach $20,860 million by 2033, growing at a CAGR of 5.2% during the forecast period (2023-2033). The increasing popularity of fantasy sports among various age groups and the rising adoption of mobile devices and internet services are key factors driving market growth. Additionally, the integration of advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) in fantasy sports platforms is further enhancing the user experience. The market is segmented based on application (under 25 years, 25-40 years, above 40 years), type (web apps and platforms, mobile applications), and region (North America, South America, Europe, Middle East & Africa, Asia Pacific). North America is currently the largest market for fantasy sports software and platforms due to the high adoption rates of fantasy sports in countries like the United States and Canada. Asia Pacific is expected to be the fastest-growing region in the coming years due to the growing popularity of fantasy sports in countries like India and China. Key players in the market include Rotoworld (Comcast Corporation), Fantasypros (Marzen Media LLC), Roto Sports, Inc., and DraftKings Inc.

The global fantasy sports betting market is experiencing robust growth, driven by increasing smartphone penetration, the rising popularity of esports, and the legalization of online gambling in several key regions. The market size in 2025 is estimated at $12 billion, exhibiting a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 15% from 2025 to 2033. This signifies a substantial expansion to an estimated $40 billion by 2033. Key drivers include the engagement offered by fantasy sports platforms, innovative game formats like daily fantasy sports (DFS), and the integration of fantasy sports with existing sports media platforms. The increasing sophistication of fantasy sports analytics tools further fuels user engagement and competition, attracting both casual and serious players. The market's segmentation reflects the popularity of various sports, with football, basketball, and baseball consistently ranking among the top choices, alongside the growing influence of esports fantasy leagues. The application segment shows a strong preference for mobile apps, leveraging convenience and accessibility. North America currently dominates the market share, though the Asia-Pacific region, particularly India and China, presents significant growth potential fueled by burgeoning internet usage and a passionate sports fanbase. While the growth trajectory is positive, challenges persist. Regulatory hurdles in various jurisdictions remain a significant restraint, alongside concerns about responsible gaming and potential addiction. Competition among established and emerging players is fierce, requiring consistent innovation and engagement strategies to retain users. The integration of advanced technologies, including artificial intelligence (AI) for enhanced user experience and predictive analytics, will likely shape the future competitive landscape. Further, the market’s growth is partly contingent on maintaining and expanding user bases, which may be influenced by factors like economic conditions and the overall health of the sports industry. To capitalize on the expansive market opportunity, companies need to focus on compliance, responsible gaming initiatives, and developing innovative products and services that cater to diverse player preferences.

The global market for Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS) and in-game gambling is experiencing robust growth, driven by the increasing popularity of esports, the rise of mobile gaming, and the expanding acceptance of online gambling. Technological advancements, particularly in mobile app development and data analytics, are further fueling market expansion. DFS, with its readily accessible platforms and engaging formats, continues to attract a broad user base, while in-game gambling provides a thrilling, immersive experience directly integrated within the gaming itself. North America currently holds a significant market share, benefiting from established regulatory frameworks and a high concentration of active gamers and sports fans. However, Asia-Pacific presents a substantial growth opportunity, with burgeoning gaming markets in China and India demonstrating increasing interest in these formats. The market is segmented by application (online platforms and apps) and type (DFS and in-game gambling). While DFS has a more established presence, in-game gambling is rapidly gaining traction, benefiting from direct integration with popular gaming titles and the convenience it offers. Major industry players such as DraftKings, FanDuel, and others are driving innovation and competition, leading to continuous improvements in user experience and product offerings. Despite the positive outlook, market growth faces certain challenges. Regulatory uncertainties and evolving gambling laws across various regions remain a key restraint. Concerns about responsible gaming and potential addiction also necessitate proactive measures to ensure sustainable growth. Furthermore, competition within the industry is fierce, requiring continuous investment in product development and marketing to maintain market share. The forecast period (2025-2033) anticipates sustained growth, fueled by technological advancements and the increasing adoption of online gaming and sports betting globally. The market is expected to see significant expansion across different regions, driven by varying levels of regulatory acceptance and market maturity. Successful players will be those that effectively navigate regulatory hurdles, prioritize responsible gaming practices, and continually innovate to engage and retain their user base.

Looking at how individuals from different ethnic groups consume fantasy sports in the United States, Asians were the most likely to have engaged with this type of activity in 2025. Specifically, ** percent of survey respondents who were Asian had been involved with fantasy sports at some point in their lives. For comparison, this figure amounted to ** percent for white individuals in the United States.