Fan or Player? Influence of Fandom on Profit Maximization in Fantasy Sport

This paper examines how identification with a fan group affects profit maximization in fantasy sports. Using data from 500 users in a fantasy league based on the English Premier League (2010–2015), the study analyzes the impact of fandom on squad selection. Results show that users who identify as fans are more likely to choose athletes from their favorite club, even when this does not maximize profits. The findings support behavioral economics assumptions, suggesting that social identification disrupts optimal decision-making for profit maximization in fantasy sports.