Report: More than 50% of US esports fans likely to bet
Data from Interpret indicates the future is bright for growing vertical despite increasing pressure to combat match fixing
More than half of US esports fans are likely to engage in esports betting, according to the latest data.
In a survey conducted by consumer insights agency Interpret, 52% of esports fans said they would bet on esports tournaments.
Over a quarter (28%) of respondents said they were unlikely to bet on esports while 21% claimed neutrality on the matter.
The growth of esports betting was catalysed largely in the first half of 2020 due to the traditional sports shutdown.
For example, Esports Entertainment Group has expanded its industry presence and holds a partnership with the NFL’s Philadelphia Eagles, while esports-first operator Luckbox listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange in December 2020.
Discussing its findings, Interpret said the growth in esports betting would create positive knock-on effects for the wider industry.
Interpret said: “While a surge in esports gambling puts increasing pressure on teams and leagues to prevent match-fixing scandals, the rise in interest should lead to spikes in viewership, more sponsors and greater opportunities for tournament organisers.
“Even without a full gambling infrastructure in place, 52% of esports followers are likely to bet on esports in the US,” the report concluded.