57.4 million North American players like fantasy sports

Fantasy sports participation in North America has reached 57.4-million players according to new research conducted by Ipsos Public Affairs for the Fantasy Sports Trade Association (FSTA), a trade body representing the interests of both fantasy and daily fantasy sports.

This is the highest number of players recorded in the history of the study and a nearly 1 percent increase over last year’s participation statistics, the Association claimed in revealing the numbers to its Summer Conference in New York City on Tuesday.

The record number of players builds upon two years of rapid growth that saw the industry expand by nearly 15 percent. Much of the continued growth can be attributed to the on-going popularity of the season-long format as 82 percent of players still play season-long fantasy sports, a statement from the FSTA revealed.

“After two years of rapid growth fuelled by the innovation of daily fantasy sports it’s a true testament to the loyalty and passion of fantasy sports players that so many recent adoptees have become regular players while the industry continues to attract new players,” said FSTA President Paul Charchian.

“Fantasy sports remains a social activity, made more enjoyable when playing with friends.”

Key findings from the study include:

* In 18 states surveyed, 61 percent of consumers support a law that makes playing fantasy sports for cash prizes legal;

* 54 percent of consumers would cancel a league supported media service if not for fantasy sports (TV channels, satellite service, apps, etc.);

* Mobile and other emerging platforms (i.e. gaming consoles, internet-connected TV) continue to grow as the predominant manner (61 percent) in which players consume fantasy. This figure grew from 56 percent in 2014 and just 32 percent in 2013;

* 55 percent of players admit they are playing more fantasy sports due to technological innovations including the ability to play on a mobile device;

* Players are managing more teams as the average number of teams managed per player increased from 5.8 last year to 7.0;

* Fantasy players are more interested in sports because of fantasy, with 64 percent reporting they are watching more live sports because of fantasy and 61 percent saying they read more about sports because of fantasy;

* The number of players who play some form of daily fantasy sports has increased from 31 percent in 2012 to 64 percent in 2015;

* 82 percent of all players play in a season-long league; just 19 percent exclusively play daily formats; and 17 percent play both formats.