Gary Lineker Signs Netflix Deal as The Rest Is Football Goes Daily
Goalhanger's Gary Lineker partners with Netflix to bring The Rest Is Football to a daily TV format during the World Cup, expanding his media reach.
Gary Lineker is reshaping his media career as Goalhanger signs a Netflix deal to turn The Rest Is Football into a daily TV program for the World Cup season. The move marks a bold expansion for the former MOTD host and his growing roster of podcast brands.
On The Rest Is Football, Lineker teams with former teammates Micah Richards and Alan Shearer for a conversation show built around football culture, interviews, and light banter. The Netflix edition will move away from the trio recording from home to a glossy New York studio, with reports from the England camp and fan zones around the world. Live match rights remain with traditional broadcasters, but the daily program aims to capture a global audience that Netflix reaches in many countries.
This development signals a major step for Goalhanger, the company behind popular podcasts such as The Rest Is Politics and The Rest Is History. Netflix confirmed the daily show will debut during the next World Cup, bringing a fresh format to football talk on a global streaming platform.
Lineker’s career journey has seen him transition from the long-running INLIBER highlight show to building a podcast empire. After stepping back from hosting a Saturday night program following controversy, he remained a leading voice in football analysis, with expectations that he would continue presenting major events like the FA Cup and the 2026 World Cup for his former employer.
The Netflix deal has attracted attention for its scale, with reports suggesting the new contract could be far larger than Lineker’s previous public earnings from INLIBER. Goalhanger has not disclosed the deal’s value, while its financials show growing retained earnings and cash reserves that support ambitious production plans.
What the change means for viewers and the industry
Analysts say the move marks a watershed moment for audio to video formats in football media. Video podcasts are rising in popularity as streaming platforms seek original sports content that can attract subscriptions and global audiences. Netflix’s involvement could help The Rest Is Football reach millions of fans beyond the United Kingdom, though it is unlikely to show live matches themselves.
Industry experts from MIDiA Research and other firms view the deal as a practical way to expand a familiar brand into daily programming, while others caution that big-money projects can alienate some listeners if the format shifts too far from the original vibe.
Market observers note that Lineker’s presence on Netflix could boost his profile in the United States, where football has a growing, highly engaged audience. Analysts also point out that the strategy mirrors other high-profile moves where broadcasters partner with streaming services to reach new viewers during major events like the World Cup.
Public reaction to the news has been mixed. Some fans welcome the chance to see Lineker and friends in a daily show, while others worry about the influence of big-money deals on the authenticity of football talk. Despite concerns, experts believe the Netflix platform can help the brand grow without sacrificing its core audience if the content remains accessible and engaging.
The rise of a podcasting empire
Lineker founded Goalhanger Films in 2014 to produce sports documentaries before pivoting to podcasts. The company has earned recognition, including a top honor at the UK Audio and Radio Industry Awards. Its shows regularly rank among the most-listened-to podcasts on major platforms, underscoring the power of a well-managed podcast brand.
During his final years with INLIBER’s MOTD coverage, Lineker helped grow a thriving podcast ecosystem, with The Rest Is Football joining a growing list of successful audio programs. Public statements from Lineker emphasized a new sense of freedom to express personal views, which some said would have been harder under the broadcaster’s impartiality rules.
'The Rest Is Adverts' — or a Smart Move?
Reaction to TRIF and the Netflix tie has highlighted a tension between advertising revenue and listener experience. Some listeners complain about frequent ad reads, while others see the deal as a practical way to sustain high-quality content in a crowded media market.
Industry watchers suggest the format could evolve to broaden appeal, including more celebrity appearances or lighter, conversation-driven segments that attract non-football fans without losing core supporters.
Expert take
"This puts Lineker on a global stage and could attract a much wider audience, which is incredibly valuable for any media personality," says Minal Modha of Ampere Analysis. "The key is balancing entertaining content with accessible football discussion to keep long-time fans while inviting new viewers."
Conclusion
The Netflix partnership signals a new era for Lineker and Goalhanger, blending sports talk with daily streaming. If the format stays true to its roots while leveraging Netflix’s reach, it could become a blueprint for turning popular podcasts into international TV series during major sporting events.
Short summary: The collaboration transforms The Rest Is Football into a daily Netflix show for the World Cup, expanding Lineker’s reach beyond traditional TV. Analysts see potential for global growth, but caution that fan trust depends on maintaining engaging, accessible content. The move reflects a broader trend of streaming platforms embracing sports and podcast brands alike.
Key insight: Netflix’s global platform could redefine how football media engages new audiences, turning a popular podcast into a daily streaming experience. BBC News