The India-based fantasy sports platform Dream11 has recently expanded internationally, entering 11 new markets—USA, UK, Australia, UAE, Canada, Malaysia, Nepal, Bangladesh, South Africa, Sri Lanka, and New Zealand.
This move is closely linked to India's new online gaming regulations, the Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Act, 2025 (PROGA).
In August this year, the Indian parliament passed the PROGA bill, which was approved by the president on August 22. The purpose is to encourage esports and social gaming while completely banning real-money based online games and related financial transactions.
In other words, in India, businesses like fantasy sports and poker that operate on a pay-to-play, win-cash-prize model, immediately faced a compliance crisis.
To adapt to this change, the fantasy sports giant Dream11 shifted its business to a "free-to-play model + international market," moving from domestic dream-type competitions to global ones.
🌍 Global Expansion: 11-Country Model Activated
In the new markets, Dream11 adopts a model where users participate in games for free (no real money involved), and the company monetizes through advertising, sponsorships, and branded leagues. This is a significant shift from its previous "pay-to-play + prize pool" model in India.
Why choose these countries? The reason is straightforward: cricket, football, and basketball are popular in these countries (especially in South Asia, the UK, Australia, and South Africa), meaning Dream11 can leverage its existing brand appeal, sports tags, and user interest for promotion.
📌 Insights for Operators: Seeing Opportunities in Policy Changes
The halt of real-money gaming models in India has forced operators like Dream11 to relocate. Other companies looking to enter or expand should also observe: when a large market falls behind due to policy, other countries may become "alternative venues."
India's gaming policy reset is like hitting the "restart button"—Dream11's international expansion is the most direct response.
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