Esports media rights revenue is projected to grow from 14% of total industry revenue in 2017 to 24% by 2021, with market value expected to rise from nearly $100 million to $400 million in the same period.
02
North America dominates the global market with a 44% share of media rights revenues, bolstered by an established sports culture and the influence of major media conglomerates.
03
The industry is increasingly adopting traditional sports business models, such as those used by the UFC, to maximize the value of esports properties.
04
Esports audiences demonstrate platform-agnostic behavior, as evidenced by the successful migration of leagues like the Smite Pro League to platforms such as Mixer.
05
Monetization is shifting toward direct-to-consumer models, exemplified by the Overwatch League’s All-Access Pass, which offers premium features like ad-free viewing and exclusive camera angles.
06
Rights holders are expanding inventory and engagement by leveraging shoulder programming, including pre-match analysis and player interviews, to maintain audience interest during off-peak hours.
Insights
01
Esports media rights revenue is projected to grow from 14% of total industry revenue in 2017 to 24% by 2021, with market value expected to rise from nearly $100 million to $400 million in the same period.
02
North America dominates the global market with a 44% share of media rights revenues, bolstered by an established sports culture and the influence of major media conglomerates.
03
The industry is increasingly adopting traditional sports business models, such as those used by the UFC, to maximize the value of esports properties.
04
Esports audiences demonstrate platform-agnostic behavior, as evidenced by the successful migration of leagues like the Smite Pro League to platforms such as Mixer.
05
Monetization is shifting toward direct-to-consumer models, exemplified by the Overwatch League’s All-Access Pass, which offers premium features like ad-free viewing and exclusive camera angles.
06
Rights holders are expanding inventory and engagement by leveraging shoulder programming, including pre-match analysis and player interviews, to maintain audience interest during off-peak hours.