**Dream11 CEO Embraces New Model Amid Government Ban on Online Gaming**
In light of the recent government ban on online real money gaming, Harsh Jain, co-founder and CEO of Dream Sports, the parent company of Dream11, has announced that the company will not contest the new regulations. Instead, Jain revealed plans to pivot towards a “3.0 model” for the future of the business. This shift comes after the passage of the ‘Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Bill 2025’ by both Houses of Parliament, which has significantly impacted Dream11’s operations.
In an interview, Jain expressed his thoughts on the ban and outlined the future direction for the company, which is valued at approximately ₹7,000 crore (around $8 billion). With the recent changes, Jain indicated that Dream11 would focus on diversifying its business portfolio, including ventures like DreamCricket, DreamMoney, DreamSetGo, and FanCode, as 95% of the company’s revenue has been affected.
Jain described the transition to Dream11 3.0 as a new phase, distinguishing it from earlier stages of the company’s development. The first phase, from 2008 to 2012, focused on non-real money gaming, while the second phase, from 2012 to 2015, was centered around real money gaming. The new model aims to enhance engagement in fantasy sports and explore sustainable business opportunities, potentially expanding into global markets as a Make-in-India initiative.
With the elimination of real money gaming options, Jain emphasized the importance of free-to-play models, advertising, sponsorships, and international expansion as key components of the new strategy. He affirmed the company’s commitment to complying with the law, stating that Dream11 would not challenge the ban in court. However, he noted that if there were attempts to retroactively label past operations as illegal gambling, the company would defend itself based on its previous constitutional protections.
Regarding workforce stability, Jain reassured that there are no plans for layoffs. Instead, the company will redirect its 500 engineers from maintaining existing systems to developing innovative, AI-driven solutions in sports content, commerce, merchandising, and fan experiences. Jain firmly stated that the path to recovery lies in building exceptional products, and the company will prioritize talent retention over cuts in personnel.
In summary, Dream11 is poised to adapt to the changing regulatory landscape by embracing a new business model focused on innovation and global outreach, while ensuring compliance with the law and maintaining its workforce.
**FAQ**
**Q: What is Dream11’s new business model following the government ban?**
A: Dream11 is transitioning to a “3.0 model,” focusing on diversifying its offerings beyond real money gaming, enhancing engagement in fantasy sports, and exploring global markets.
