The India fantasy sports market has witnessed tremendous growth over the years, driven by the increasing popularity of sports, advancements in technology, and a growing interest in real-time engagement among sports enthusiasts. As per the latest market research conducted by the Custom Market Insight team, the India fantasy sports market is poised to achieve a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 13.9% from 2025 to 2035. In 2025, the market size is projected to reach a valuation of US$ 28.98 billion, and by 2035, it is expected to grow significantly to US$ 72.06 billion.
Market Segmentation
By Sports Type
- Cricket: As the most popular sport in India, cricket dominates the fantasy sports market. The Indian Premier League (IPL) and other domestic and international tournaments have played a crucial role in engaging users and driving growth. With millions of fans participating, cricket accounts for a substantial share of the market.
- Football: Football’s rising popularity, fueled by global tournaments like the FIFA World Cup and the Indian Super League (ISL), has contributed to its growth in the fantasy sports market. Fans actively create virtual teams to compete in these high-stakes events.
- Others: Other sports, including kabaddi, basketball, hockey, and tennis, have also gained traction. Pro Kabaddi League (PKL) and international tournaments are attracting more fantasy sports users to diversify their interests.
By Platform
- Website: Fantasy sports platforms accessible through websites cater to users who prefer larger screen experiences for team management, data analysis, and strategy building.
- Mobile Application: The mobile application segment is the dominant platform, owing to the widespread adoption of smartphones, affordable internet, and user-friendly app interfaces. Mobile apps enable real-time engagement, notifications, and convenience, making them a preferred choice for fantasy sports enthusiasts.
By Demographics
- Under 25 Years: This segment includes a tech-savvy and highly engaged audience that is enthusiastic about sports and gaming. Their participation is driven by social trends and the thrill of competition.
- 25-40 Years: Representing the largest demographic segment, individuals in this group are often working professionals and sports enthusiasts. Their financial independence allows them to actively participate in paid fantasy sports leagues.
- Above 40 Years: While smaller in comparison, this segment has shown consistent growth as more individuals embrace digital platforms and develop an interest in virtual gaming.
By Region
The Indian fantasy sports market is geographically diverse, with metropolitan cities such as Mumbai, Delhi, Bangalore, and Chennai leading in participation. Tier-II and Tier-III cities are emerging as high-growth regions due to increased smartphone penetration and affordable internet access.
Market Drivers
- Popularity of Sports: The cultural importance of sports, particularly cricket, in India plays a pivotal role in driving the fantasy sports market. The popularity of leagues such as the IPL and ISL ensures year-round engagement.
- Technological Advancements: The integration of artificial intelligence, machine learning, and data analytics into fantasy sports platforms enhances user experiences. Features like player performance predictions, match insights, and real-time updates keep users engaged.
- Increasing Internet Penetration: The availability of affordable internet and the widespread use of smartphones in urban and rural areas have significantly contributed to the growth of the fantasy sports market.
- Youth Demographics: India’s large youth population, coupled with their interest in sports and digital entertainment, creates a robust user base for fantasy sports platforms.
Challenges
- Regulatory Landscape: The legal framework surrounding fantasy sports in India remains ambiguous, with different states adopting varying stances. Regulatory clarity is essential to ensure sustained growth.
- Competition: The market is highly competitive, with numerous platforms vying for user attention. Retaining users through innovative features and rewarding systems is critical.
- Responsible Gaming: Addressing concerns related to addiction and financial losses is essential for maintaining user trust and market credibility.
Future Outlook
The India fantasy sports market is set to undergo substantial growth in the next decade, supported by technological innovations, increasing awareness, and strategic collaborations between sports leagues and fantasy platforms. The market’s evolution will be shaped by the ability of platforms to deliver engaging, secure, and user-friendly experiences. As the ecosystem matures, fantasy sports in India are expected to transition from a niche activity to a mainstream entertainment avenue.
Conclusion
The India fantasy sports market presents a lucrative opportunity for investors, entrepreneurs, and sports enthusiasts. With a projected market size of US$ 72.06 billion by 2035 and a CAGR of 13.9%, the sector is poised for exponential growth. Platforms that focus on innovation, user engagement, and regulatory compliance will likely emerge as market leaders, driving the future of fantasy sports in India.
