Beyond the IPL: Why Football Betting is Becoming India’s New Favorite Sport

In India, cricket often feels less like a sport and more like a religion. The nation’s passion for cricket, fueled by iconic tournaments like the Indian Premier League (IPL), has dominated the sports scene for decades. However, the landscape is shifting, and football is emerging as a strong contender for the country’s attention. According to recent reports, football now enjoys the second-highest viewership in India, trailing only cricket.

India’s estimated sports audience stands at an impressive 678 million people. While cricket leads with a staggering 612 million viewers, football commands a significant 305 million, with kabaddi not far behind at 280 million. This growing interest in football mirrors the trends in sports betting, where football is rapidly gaining ground. Improved opportunities for football betting, coupled with promotions like BC Game bonus codes, have made it more accessible and appealing, cementing its place as a popular choice among Indian sports enthusiasts.

The Sunil Chhetri Effect

Sunil Chhetri, India's iconic football captain, has been instrumental in elevating the sport's profile. With a career spanning nearly two decades, Chhetri became a household name, inspiring countless young Indians to embrace football. His retirement announcement in May 2024 marked the end of an era and sparked widespread discussions about his legacy and the future of Indian football.

Chhetri's influence extended beyond the pitch. Under his leadership, Indian football attracted significant sponsorship deals, providing the financial backing necessary for the sport's development. These investments improved infrastructure and increased the sport's visibility, drawing more fans and participants.

The Birth of the Indian Super League

The Indian Super League (ISL), launched in 2013, marked a significant milestone for football in India. Designed with the glitz and structure of the Indian Premier League (IPL), the ISL introduced a fresh level of professionalism and excitement to the sport. Bollywood celebrities and sports icons brought star power to the league as team owners, making football more appealing to a wide range of audiences.

Mumbai City FC, co-owned by actor Ranbir Kapoor and the City Football Group (the owners of Manchester City FC), quickly became a high-profile team. Similarly, Chennaiyin FC garnered attention with its co-owners, including actor Abhishek Bachchan, former cricketer MS Dhoni, and businesswoman Vita Dani.

The celebrity influence not only added glamour but also significantly increased the sport's viewership. As football gained a larger fan base, betting on ISL matches emerged as a popular activity, reflecting the growing engagement with the league and its teams.

The Surge in Football Betting

As football's popularity soared, so did the interest in football betting. The ISL's competitive matches provided ample opportunities for fans to engage more deeply through betting, adding an extra layer of excitement to the viewing experience.

Moreover, European leagues like the Premier League and La Liga have massive viewership in India. Many fans follow these leagues passionately, often participating in betting activities related to them. The rise of fantasy leagues has further fueled this trend, allowing fans to create their own teams and compete based on real-world performances.

The Role of Betting Platforms

The rise of football's popularity in India has been paralleled by the expansion of online betting platforms catering to football enthusiasts. Platforms such as 22Bet, 1xBet, and Parimatch have established themselves as prominent destinations for football betting, offering extensive coverage of both domestic leagues like the Indian Super League (ISL) and major international competitions. These platforms provide a variety of betting markets, including match outcomes, goal totals, and player-specific wagers, appealing to a broad spectrum of bettors. Additionally, they support multiple payment methods, including UPI and e-wallets, facilitating seamless transactions for Indian users.

The user experience on these platforms is enhanced by features such as live betting and real-time updates, allowing users to place bets during ongoing matches. Some platforms also offer live streaming services, enabling users to watch matches directly through the betting site, thereby integrating viewing and betting into a single experience.

The availability of mobile applications ensures that users can engage in betting activities conveniently from their smartphones, contributing to the growing popularity of football betting in India

Cultural Shifts and Changing Attitudes

The cultural perception of betting in India is gradually evolving. Once considered taboo, betting is increasingly viewed as a form of entertainment and a way to engage more deeply with sports. This shift is partly due to the global normalization of sports betting and the influence of international media. As football continues to grow in popularity, betting on the sport is becoming more socially acceptable, especially among younger generations who are more open to global trends.

Final Words

The convergence of these factors signifies a new era for Indian sports, where football is carving out a significant niche alongside cricket. The sport's growing popularity, supported by influential figures like Sunil Chhetri, the establishment of the ISL, and the integration of betting and fantasy leagues, indicates a dynamic shift in India's sporting preferences.

As football continues to captivate the Indian audience, it's clear that the nation's sporting identity is evolving. The beautiful game is no longer in the shadows but is emerging as a favorite, offering fans new ways to engage and celebrate their passion.