Dream11 stops all paid contests, and this decision has created a huge buzz among sports fans across India. The announcement came right after the government introduced a strict new law. On 22 August 2025, the Promotion & Regulation of Online Gaming Law, 2025, officially came into effect. This law banned all money-based online games, including fantasy sports with entry fees and cash rewards. As a result, Dream11 had no choice but to shut down its popular paid contests and transform its business.
Soon after, Dream11 issued a clear statement on X (Twitter). The company said, “This morning, we stopped all paid contests on Dream11 and pivoted entirely to a free-to-play online social game.” From now on, players will not find any contests with entry fees or cash prizes. Instead, the app will only provide free-to-play options.
However, the company also reassured its users. Dream11 confirmed that all wallet balances are safe, and users can withdraw their money anytime. This step built confidence among millions of players who had been actively participating in paid contests.
Moreover, Dream11 explained that while it had always supported progressive regulations, it respects the government’s decision and will fully comply with the law. By doing so, the company showed responsibility and a willingness to adapt.
In addition, Dream11 shared its inspiring journey. The company started way back in 2008 as a small sports-tech startup. At that time, fantasy sports in India hardly existed, and the market was less than 1% of the U.S. industry. Yet, the founders believed in their vision. Over the years, they built Dream11 into the world’s largest fantasy sports platform.
Because of this new law, Dream11 is now entering what it calls its “second innings.” The company highlighted that its other ventures, FanCode, DreamSetGo, Dream Game Studios, and the Dream Sports Foundation, will continue to operate and grow. These businesses are set to take on a more significant role in shaping the future of Dream Sports. The statement ended on a hopeful note with the words, “See you in our second innings.”
Nevertheless, the impact of this change is massive. Paid contests were the main source of income for Dream11. Reports show that in FY 2024, the company earned over ₹9,600 crore in revenue. More than 90% of Dream Sports’ income came from real-money fantasy games. Switching to a free-to-play model marks a significant change in its business strategy.
Dream Sports reached a valuation of $8 billion back in 2021 following a significant funding round. This valuation depended largely on Dream11’s strong growth in paid fantasy contests. Now, with this revenue stream gone, the company must rely more on its sports-tech ecosystem and innovative projects to keep growing.
Looking ahead, Dream11 seems determined to make the most of this challenge. The company believes sports in India still have enormous potential. By offering engaging free-to-play contests, creating unique fan experiences, and investing in related ventures, Dream11 aims to stay relevant and continue entertaining millions of users.
In conclusion, Dream11 stops all paid contests, and this marks the end of one important chapter. However, the story does not end here. Instead, it signals a fresh beginning, one where Dream11 steps into a new role while keeping its passion for sports alive.
