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Fantasy Sports Market – Growth, Trends, COVID-19 Impact, and Forecasts (2022 – 2027)
Reportlinker.com announces the release of the report “Fantasy Sports Market – Growth, Trends, COVID-19 Impact, and Forecasts (2022 – 2027)”
Key Highlights
In recent years, the introduction of multiple sports leagues in badminton, soccer, football (rugby), basketball, and volleyball has driven a shift in sporting culture. Technology advancements, increasing smartphone and internet penetration, have accelerated the growth of sports in various countries. An enthusiastic fan base has emerged, with an increasing number of people participating in, discussing, and competing in these sports, which has changed the way fans engage in sports, fueling the growth of fantasy sports.
Sports Tech is expected to create opportunities for highly skilled software engineers, data scientists, and cyber security professionals. It will likely increase sports viewership, sponsorships, and participation, directly impacting sports development. Hence, sports fan engagement platforms, such as Fantasy Sports, are altering how fans interact with live sporting events.
Several software and platforms are introduced in the market to help the users customize and analyze their players, allowing them to choose the right players for their draft based on data. For instance, according to The Analyst, in June 2022, the Stats Perform group introduced their new and improved NBA Draft Model, which helps the users/franchises to plan and choose their players based on a performance slider. These sliders represent different on-field actions and stats of a professional athlete, giving an overall DRIP rating and helping users make the appropriate choice. Some sliders include boxes, passes, shooting, post-ups, attacking, etc.
One of the major market drivers for online sports gambling and fantasy sports is the convenience offered when compared to other channels, particularly when the betting is conducted through a connected mobile device such as a smartphone. Bets are placed through computers, smartphones, and other connected devices through the internet. With the increase in the proportion of bettors who place a bet using mobile internet, there are increasing growth opportunities for the market.
Further, increased internet penetration and usage of low-cost smartphones among the urban and rural populations, and realization of monetization through revenue streams, like in-app purchases, pay-per-download, and subscription services, by gamers, and in-app advertisements, incentive-based advertisements, etc., by the ecosystem, have been driving the growth of fantasy sports market.
As fantasy sports are similar to sports betting, they can position themselves as an important and legal alternative to sports betting in the future. However, the fairness and legality of fantasy sports and the secure nature of transactions are known only to fewer people, suggesting that further awareness and education should be required to familiarize people with these core aspects of fantasy sports.
Even though COVID-19 caused problems for some fantasy leagues, these leagues have remained active despite the shortened professional seasons starting in 2021. Despite the pandemic’s setback, the long-term prospects for fantasy sports are anticipated to stay positive. The market has seen a major influx of new participants and well-funded new startups due to renewed interest brought on by the legalization of “sports betting”in the United States. People’s obsession with fantasy sports is a major factor in the industry’s expansion. According to Sensor Tower, ESPN fantasy sports had 60,000 downloads and made USD 30,000 in revenue during July 2020. ?
Key Market Trends
Fantasy Soccer to Hold a Major Share
Fantasy football or soccer is the most popular, just like the real game, with thousands of leagues to compete in. According to FIFA, football, or soccer as it is more often known in the United States, has over 5 billion fans worldwide. Some major football leagues include Premier League, La Liga, the Bundesliga, MLS, Serie A, Ligue 1, etc.
Fantasy soccer has various equivalent formats played worldwide with over nine million participants. Entrepreneurs are offering these sports platforms from multiple locations to appease the growing demand from fans for virtual versions of their preferred sports.
The fantasy football leagues (for soccer) often replicate the official leagues in various jurisdictions, such as Fantasy Premier League, Fantasy La Liga, Bundesliga, Serie A, etc. However, players can also build customized leagues with several possibilities.
Various leagues have partnered with fantasy sports platforms to engage fans better and increase their fan base. For instance, in March 2022, MLS announced a multi-year partnership with Sorareto to launch non-fungible tokens (NFTs) for all MLS clubs and players that can be collected and used by the platform’s 1.5 million users across 184 countries in its blockchain-based fantasy game. Major League Soccer (MLS) created a new emerging venture team focused on three areas, increasing the league’s fan base, driving revenue, and bringing in new and emerging technologies to be utilized by the league and its 28 clubs.
Moreover, prominent market players such as DraftKings, FanDuel, etc., are generating revenues significantly from fantasy soccer platforms. For instance, according to Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board, In February 2021, DraftKings accounted for the highest share of adjusted revenue from fantasy sports in Pennsylvania, amounting to approximately USD 1,1170.03 thousand. In comparison, FanDuel’s fantasy sports revenue reached roughly USD 743 thousand.
North America to Hold a Significant Market Share
North America presently holds a prominent position in the football (rugby) fantasy sports market. In the future, it will account for notable expansion due to economic growth, the increasing demand for football (rugby), a growing number of internet-accessible tools, and sports sponsorships, partnerships, acquisitions, and innovations.
For instance, in February 2021, To expand current daily fantasy sports (DFS) and content partnership to Canada, the National Football League (NFL) and DraftKings Inc., a pioneer in the digital sports entertainment and gaming industry and for its daily fantasy sports and mobile sports betting apps, have made a partnership. The two organizations’ connection has been strengthened by the announcement of an expanded agreement, which will also improve the DFS user experience in Canada as the NFL season moves closer to the Super Bowl.
American football (rugby) has a much more significant player base than other fantasy sports like fantasy baseball, basketball, or ice hockey in the US. Since the NFL accepted the concept of fantasy leagues considerable percentage of all fantasy league players nationwide currently participate in fantasy football (rugby). For decades, all fantasy leagues were unofficial and had no connection to the NFL. DraftKings became the league’s first official daily fantasy partner in 2019. Through the agreements, the operators will have access to official game information and content and a presence on NFL.com and the official NFL app.
Fantasy football (rugby) and fantasy gridiron football are the two most prominent fantasy sports in the United States. Due to rising interest in football leagues like the Greater Oakland Professional Pigskin Prognosticators League (GOPPPL), National Football League (NFL), and American Football League, football (rugby) alone commands the largest portion of the fantasy sports market.
Canada has a significant gaming industry. Canada’s gaming industry is diverse, from online gambling to fantasy football and multiplayer first-person shooter games. The expansion of the Canadian fantasy gaming market has been driven by several key factors such as technological innovations, consumer preferences for new products, shifts in public perception, and innovation. This has further translated into interest from international companies wanting to make a strong foothold in Canada.
The region is witnessed various acquisitions for increasing performance metrics. For instance, in December 2021, A daily fantasy sports business called Betcha Sports, which blends gaming with social networking elements, was acquired by Vivid Seats for USD 25 million in Vivid Seat stock.
Competitive Landscape
The Fantasy Sports Market is fragmented, and the companies are leveraging strategic collaborative initiatives to increase their market share and increase their profitability. However, with technological advancements and product innovations, mid-size to smaller companies are growing their market presence by securing new contracts and tapping new markets.
April 2022 – DraftKings and the Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation announced that they have agreed to a deal to expand their relationship and pave the way to offering the DraftKings online and retail sports betting experience in Puerto Rico, subject to applicable licenses and regulatory approvals being obtained. The DraftKings retail sportsbook will be located inside the Foxwoods El San Juan Casino and is expected to open in the coming weeks, pending receipt of applicable licenses and regulatory approvals. Once complete, the space will feature a massive video wall, bar and dining services, two over-the-counter ticket windows, and six betting kiosks.
December 2021 – Flutter Entertainment plc announced the acquisition of Sisal, Italy’s prominent online gaming operator, from CVC Capital Partners Fund VI for a consideration of EUR 1.913 billion / GBP 1.62 billion. The acquisition fully aligns with the Group’s strategy of investing in building leadership positions in regulated markets globally.
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Innovative iGaming studio Peter & Sons has strengthened its North American footprint by launching its portfolio in Ontario through a new partnership with Ellipse Entertainment, a fully licensed operator in the province.
The collaboration marks another step in the studio’s international expansion, bringing its distinctive slot titles to one of the most dynamic regulated markets in North America. Players in Ontario can now access Peter & Sons’ games via HighFlyerCasino.com, Ellipse Entertainment’s flagship platform designed specifically for the local market.
Entering a Key Regulated Market
Ontario has quickly established itself as a leading jurisdiction for regulated iGaming, attracting both operators and content providers seeking long-term growth opportunities. With a strong regulatory framework and a growing player base, the province offers a stable environment for companies looking to scale their presence in North America.
By partnering with Ellipse Entertainment, Peter & Sons gains access to a platform that prioritizes compliance, security, and user experience. HighFlyerCasino.com combines a wide-ranging portfolio of casino content with a seamless interface tailored to local players, ensuring a high-quality gaming experience.
Distinctive Content Meets Local Demand
Peter & Sons has built a reputation for delivering unconventional slot experiences, characterized by indie-inspired visuals, imaginative storytelling, and highly detailed game worlds. Its portfolio stands out in a crowded market, appealing to players looking for something beyond traditional slot design.
The launch in Ontario introduces these unique titles to a broader audience, aligning with increasing demand for diverse and engaging content within regulated markets. As competition intensifies, distinctive game design has become a key differentiator for studios aiming to capture player attention and retention.
Building a Long-Term Partnership
The partnership reflects a shared commitment to delivering premium entertainment within a trusted regulatory environment. Both companies are focused on creating value for players while ensuring compliance with Ontario’s gaming standards.
Yann Bautista, Founder and Commercial Director at Peter & Sons, said:
“We are delighted to launch our portfolio with Ellipse Entertainment and bring our games to players in Ontario. The region has quickly established itself as a key regulated market in North America, and HighFlyerCasino.com provides a strong platform for introducing our distinctive titles to Canadian audiences.”
Larry Galansky, Founder of Ellipse Entertainment, added:
“We are pleased to welcome Peter & Sons to our platform as we continue expanding our entertainment offering. Their games are known for their artistic style and engaging gameplay, and we are confident they will resonate strongly with our audience.”
As the Ontario market continues to grow, partnerships like this highlight the importance of combining innovative content with reliable distribution platforms. For Peter & Sons, the move represents a strategic step toward strengthening its global reach while delivering its unique gaming experiences to new audiences.
The post Peter & Sons Goes Live in Ontario with Ellipse Entertainment appeared first on Eastern European Gaming | Global iGaming & Tech Intelligence Hub.
Innovative iGaming studio Peter & Sons has strengthened its presence in the Canadian market after launching its portfolio with Ellipse Entertainment, a fully licensed operator in Ontario.
Ellipse Entertainment operates within the province’s regulated gaming framework and provides players with access to its flagship platform HighFlyerCasino.com. The site combines a diverse portfolio of casino titles with a secure, seamless, and fully compliant gaming experience tailored specifically for players in the Ontario market.
Ontario has rapidly emerged as one of North America’s most progressive regulated iGaming jurisdictions. Players across the province can now enjoy a selection of Peter & Sons titles through HighFlyerCasino.com, bringing the studio’s distinctive game worlds and mechanics to a growing audience of Canadian players.
Renowned for its catalogue of indie-inspired creations, offbeat characters, and meticulously crafted game worlds, Peter & Sons continues to push boundaries in slot design and entertainment. By joining forces with Ellipse Entertainment. a platform committed to delivering premium gaming experiences within a trusted regulatory environment, the studio looks forward to building a long-term partnership in the Ontario market.
Yann Bautista, Peter & Sons Founder and Commercial Director, said: “We are delighted to launch our portfolio with Ellipse Entertainment and bring our games to players in Ontario. The region has quickly established itself as a key regulated market in North America, and HighFlyerCasino.com provides a strong platform for introducing our distinctive titles to Canadian audiences.”
Larry Galansky, founder of Ellipse Entertainment added: “We are pleased to welcome Peter & Sons to our platform as we continue expanding the entertainment offering available to our players. Their games are known for their distinctive artistic style and engaging gameplay, and we are confident they will resonate strongly with our audience.”
The post Peter & Sons Goes Live in Ontario with Ellipse Entertainment appeared first on Americas iGaming & Sports Betting News.
Bragg Gaming Group has announced its financial results for the fourth quarter of 2025.
Fourth Quarter 2025 Financial Highlights:
• Revenue Growth: Record total quarterly revenue of €27.7 million in the fourth quarter:
• Revenue increase of 5.1% (excluding The Netherlands) compared to the prior year period in 2024;
• The Netherlands revenue decreased 4.6% year-over-year due to the market’s overall contraction caused by increased regulation and higher taxes;
• Brazil revenue increased 42.1% compared to the 2024 fourth quarter with continued growth in provider onboarding; and
• US recurring revenue grew 55.0% year-over-year, driven by expanded high-margin proprietary content footprint; and
• Including the impact of The Netherlands, total revenue grew 1.9% year-over-year.
• Operating Loss, Net Loss and Adjusted EBITDA: Operating loss for the quarter was €0.1 million, a €0.6 million improvement from an operating loss of €0.7 million in the same period of 2024. Net loss for the quarter was €1.3 million, or €0.05 per common share, compared to €0.7 million, or €0.03 per common share, in the same period of 2024. Adjusted EBITDA for the 2025 fourth quarter was €4.6 million (representing an Adjusted EBITDA Margin of 16.5%), compared to €4.7 million (representing an Adjusted EBITDA Margin of 17.2%) in Q4-2024.
• Strategic Market Expansion in the US and Brazil: Expanded U.S. content footprint through the launch of its exclusive and bespoke online casino content with Caesars Entertainment in West Virginia. Bragg also launched exclusive and aggregated content with several valued clients operating in Brazil (and other key LatAm jurisdictions), including Brazino777, Blaze, and Super Technologies.
Full Year 2025 Financial Highlights:
• Revenue Growth: Record total annual revenue of €106.1 million in 2025, an increase of 4.0% compared to €102.0 in the year ended December 31, 2024.
• Operating Loss, Net Loss and Adjusted EBITDA: Operating loss for 2025 was €5.3 million, compared to €3.5 million in 2024. Net loss for 2025 was €8.1 million, or €0.32 per common share, compared to €5.1 million, or €0.21 per common share, in 2024. Full year 2025 Adjusted EBITDA was €16.6 million (representing an Adjusted EBITDA Margin of 15.6%), compared to €15.8 million (representing an Adjusted EBITDA Margin of 15.5%) in 2024.
• Balance Sheet Strength: During the year ended December 31, 2025, the Company fully repaid a US$7.0 million secured promissory note and entered into a financing agreement with a Tier One Canadian financial institution for certain revolving credit facilities in a maximum aggregate amount of up to US$6.0 million, replacing its prior debt at less than half the borrowing cost. During the second half of the year, the Company drew C$4.5 million in principal and US$1.1 million in overdraft in respect of Term CORRA loans. Cash and cash equivalents as of December 31, 2025 amounted to €6.7 million.
Fourth Quarter 2025 and Recent Business Highlights:
• Bolstered Leadership Team: Appointed Morten Tonnesen as its new Chief Operating Officer and promoted Garrick Morris to the position of Executive Vice President of Global Content, US & Canada.
• Player Account Management (PAM) Expansion in Europe: Announced the extension of its existing PAM platform agreement with valued client 711.nl to include the regulated Belgian iGaming market, with potential for future Bragg-powered online casino launches in additional regulated or newly regulating iGaming markets. Also, extended its existing PAM agreement with Entain Plc (LSE: ENTL), one of the world’s largest sports betting and gaming groups for BetCity.nl, a leading Dutch market operator, and with Senator Group, an online casino market leader in Croatia.
• Finnish Market Liberalization Preparations: Signed a comprehensive PAM platform and turnkey solution agreement with SuomiVeto, a market entrant led by the successful founders of BetCity.nl, focused on positioning SuomiVeto as a leading operator, and Bragg as a leading supplier, in the newly regulated Finnish iGaming market when it launches. The market is scheduled to “go live” for private operators on July 1, 2027.
• Ambitious Artificial Intelligence (AI) Transformation Plan: Leapt into an “AI-First” future by initiating the development of the Bragg AI Brain, a data-driven artificial intelligence engine designed to power smarter decisions and intelligent products across the Bragg’s Ecosystem. The transformation plan is underpinned by clear 2027 targets, including ensuring an AI-Enhanced Product becomes standard in over 90% of all launches and having more than three-quarters of Bragg’s operational workflows impacted by AI.
• Strategic Restructuring to Reduce Cost Structure and Improve Operating Performance: Announced a strategic restructuring, including an approximately 12% reduction of global workforce, designed to realign the organization and thereby improve its overall cost structure, drive its EBITDA growth, and shorten the time required for it to achieve sustained net profitability. The Company expects to incur restructuring costs related to this action of approximately €1.0 million associated with personnel-related termination costs in the first quarter of 2026, and it anticipates annualized cash savings from its staff reductions and other restructuring efforts to be approximately €4.5 million. This amount does not include the expected positive impact of the Company’s initiative to the Bragg AI Brain to drive cost efficiencies and improve operational excellence.
• Greater Board of Directors Alignment with Shareholders: From January 1, 2026, fees are being paid to directors exclusively in deferred share units (DSUs) on a monthly basis (with no cash alternative).
Matevž Mazij, Chief Executive Officer at Bragg, said: “We continued to execute well, delivering record revenues, strategic expansion and important AI and restructuring initiatives. We believe this positions Bragg well for 2026 and beyond to: increase our overall content market share in Brazil and the United States; pursue emerging alternative markets, such as Historical and Live Racing and Prediction Markets; move into new jurisdictions that offer opportunities for higher margin content business; deliver enhanced operational leverage; meet our goals to streamline internal processes; enhance overall efficiency across our organization; protect our cash runway; and advance us further along the path toward EBITDA growth and net profitability.”
Board Changes
The Company also announced the appointment of Thomas Winter to its Board of Directors. Mr. Winter succeeds Kent Young, who has retired from the Board. Both changes to the Bragg Board are effective immediately.
Mr. Winter brings deep knowledge of and experience in the iGaming and wagering industry. Currently a Board Member of Rush Street Interactive, which through its brands, BetRivers, PlaySugarHouse and RushBet, was an early entrant in several regulated jurisdictions, Mr. Winter began his career in the gaming sector nearly two decades ago and has since established himself as a leader in the field. In 2013, he founded Golden Nugget Online Gaming (GNOG), where he served as President. Under his leadership, GNOG became a top online gaming operator in New Jersey, achieving significant market share and recognition, went public and was later successfully sold for over $1.5 billion to DraftKings, where he developed their multi-brand online casino strategy and led their online casino business until September 2023. Before founding GNOG, he was the CEO and director of Betclic, a major European online sports betting and gaming operator, and Expekt, a pioneer brand in the online gaming industry, within the Betclic Group. Mr. Winter played a key role as COO at both businesses before being appointed CEO.
“I would like to thank Kent for his many contributions to the Company. I am also very pleased to welcome Thomas to our team. Moving forward, the Board and management team will be steadfast in our aim to close the clear and persistent gap between the Company’s public market valuation and our assessment of its intrinsic value. To that end, as Thomas is a gaming industry luminary who has earned my deep personal admiration and great professional respect, I am confident that he will be a tremendous asset to our Board and to our shareholders,” said Holly Gagnon, Chair of the Bragg Board.
2026 Outlook
The Company anticipates full year 2026 revenue between €97.0 million and €104.5 million and Adjusted EBITDA of €16.0 million to €19.0 million (representing an Adjusted EBITDA Margin of 16.0% to 18.0%).
The post Bragg Gaming Group Reports Record Fourth Quarter and Full Year 2025 Revenues appeared first on Americas iGaming & Sports Betting News.
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