Understanding the Legality of Underdog Fantasy in California and Florida

Introduction: The Legal Status of Daily Fantasy Sports

Daily fantasy sports (DFS) platforms have become increasingly popular across the United States, offering sports fans a new way to interact with their favorite games. Among these platforms, Underdog Fantasy stands out for its engaging contests and easy-to-use interface. However, the legality of Underdog Fantasy varies state by state, particularly in California and Florida. This comprehensive guide explores the current legal situation, provides practical advice for users, and outlines the necessary steps to participate responsibly.

Is Underdog Fantasy Legal in California?

The legal environment for DFS in California is complex and rapidly evolving. Officially, online sports betting remains illegal in the state, and traditional sportsbooks cannot operate. However, DFS platforms like Underdog have historically operated in a gray area due to the lack of specific regulations addressing fantasy sports.

As of July 2025, California Attorney General Rob Bonta issued a formal opinion stating that daily fantasy sports games are considered illegal gambling under state law. This opinion referenced Penal Code section 337a, which prohibits wagering on sports results, including through fantasy contests. Following this announcement, Underdog pulled its popular “against-the-house” pick’em product from California and now only offers a peer-to-peer (P2P) pick’em game called Champions in the state [1] .

Despite this, some sources continue to report that Underdog Fantasy is accessible and operational for California residents over 18, as the Attorney General’s opinion is not legally binding legislation [2] . Users can still join P2P contests, but the legal risk remains, especially as ongoing lawsuits seek to halt DFS operations statewide [4] .

How to Participate in Underdog Fantasy in California

For Californians interested in DFS, the following steps may help you participate while minimizing risk:

Check the Official Underdog Platform: Visit Underdog’s official website or app to see which games are currently offered in California. As of the latest updates, only peer-to-peer (Champions) contests are available, not “against-the-house” pick’em games [1] .
Monitor Legal Updates: The legal landscape is evolving. Stay informed by following California Attorney General’s office press releases and local news reports on fantasy sports regulations.
Understand the Risks: While participation in P2P DFS contests may still be possible, users should recognize the potential legal risks, especially as lawsuits and regulatory actions continue [4] .
Age Requirements: You must be at least 18 years old to participate on Underdog in California [3] .

For those seeking alternatives, consider traditional season-long fantasy leagues with friends or local sports clubs, which generally fall outside gambling laws.

Real-World Example: A California User’s Experience

After the Attorney General’s opinion, a Los Angeles-based Underdog user found that the familiar “against-the-house” pick’em games were no longer available. Instead, the user could join Champions contests, which involve competing directly against other players rather than the platform. This change preserved an element of fantasy sports participation while aligning with the current legal environment.

Is Underdog Fantasy Legal in Florida?

While the focus of recent legal developments has been on California, it is essential to address the situation in Florida . As of August 2025, Florida has not passed legislation specifically legalizing or prohibiting DFS. This creates a similar gray area as in California, though Florida’s officials have not recently issued a formal opinion or pursued active lawsuits against DFS operators.

Underdog Fantasy continues to operate in Florida, allowing residents aged 18 and older to participate in DFS contests. However, the absence of regulation means that legal risks could materialize if state authorities change their position or new laws are passed. Users are encouraged to monitor local developments and consult legal experts if unsure about participation.

How to Access Underdog Fantasy in Florida

Here are recommended steps for Floridians interested in DFS:

Visit the Official Underdog Fantasy Website: Always use the official Underdog platform to register and verify which games are available in your state.
Check for Age Restrictions: Ensure you meet the minimum age requirement (typically 18 years old) before participating.
Monitor State Legislation: Stay updated on any changes in Florida’s gambling laws by following the Florida Division of Pari-Mutuel Wagering or the state legislature’s official channels.
Responsible Play: Set personal limits and review Underdog’s responsible gaming resources for guidance.

Potential Challenges and Solutions

Both California and Florida residents face uncertainty due to the lack of clear DFS regulation. Here are some challenges and suggested approaches:

Legal Ambiguity: With ongoing lawsuits in California and no formal laws in Florida, users should proceed cautiously. Regularly checking official statements and news reports can help you stay compliant.
Platform Restrictions: Platforms may change available contest types or restrict access in response to regulatory actions. If your preferred contest type is unavailable, explore alternative formats or different fantasy sports platforms that comply with state guidelines.
Risk of Account Suspension: If the legal climate changes, platforms could suspend or close accounts for users in affected states. To mitigate this risk, avoid depositing large sums and withdraw winnings regularly.

Alternative Approaches for Fantasy Sports Fans

If daily fantasy sports become unavailable or too risky in your state, consider the following alternatives:

Season-Long Fantasy Leagues: Traditional leagues with friends or coworkers are usually considered games of skill and not subject to gambling laws.
Free-to-Play Contests: Some platforms offer contests with no entry fees and non-cash prizes, which may avoid legal scrutiny.
Local Sports Clubs: Joining recreational sports leagues or clubs offers a way to stay engaged with your favorite sports outside the fantasy format.

Staying Informed and Taking Action

Given the fluid legal environment for DFS in California and Florida, the best course of action is to remain vigilant:

Regularly search for updates about daily fantasy sports laws in your state using keywords like “DFS legal status California 2025” or “Florida daily fantasy sports law.”
Consult the official Underdog Fantasy website or app for the most current information on contest availability.
Reach out to your state gaming or gambling commission (such as the California Gambling Control Commission or the Florida Division of Pari-Mutuel Wagering) for guidance, especially if you are considering significant play.
If you have specific legal concerns, consider contacting a gaming law attorney in your state for a personalized assessment.

Key Takeaways

The legality of Underdog Fantasy in California is currently subject to significant legal debate. While peer-to-peer contests may still be available, the state’s Attorney General has stated that DFS constitutes illegal gambling, and litigation is ongoing. In Florida, DFS remains in a legal gray zone, but Underdog continues to operate as of August 2025. Users in both states must remain aware of evolving laws and practice responsible participation.