DAZN has announced a new partnership with Goalhanger, the media company co-founded by Gary Lineker, to deliver a special edition of The Rest Is Football podcast during the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup in the United States.
The podcast, hosted by Lineker and featuring former England internationals Alan Shearer and Micah Richards, will include licensed match footage from the tournament. In addition to the podcast, the team will also contribute to live coverage and create engaging content across social media platforms.
Tony Pastor, co-founder of Goalhanger, highlighted the show’s growing influence. “The Rest Is Football isn’t just being listened to — it’s being watched, shared, and discussed on Spotify, YouTube, TikTok, X, and Instagram,” he said.
“Partnering with DAZN to use official match clips is a natural next step. It adds energy and context that deepens the conversation. With over six million episode views and listens each month, and strong social engagement, it’s the UK’s most popular sports podcast.”
Pete Oliver, Chief Executive of Growth Markets at DAZN, echoed the enthusiasm. “The Rest Is Football is essential viewing and listening for fans seeking insight, entertainment, and personality,” he said. “This partnership is a fantastic way to engage that audience during the Club World Cup.”
“It’s about connecting global football with trusted voices, presenting the tournament in a fresh and authentically British style,” Oliver added. “As the exclusive broadcaster of the tournament and the only platform offering every match for free in the UK, teaming up with Goalhanger was the perfect fit.”
The partnership will help DAZN promote its live broadcasts of the newly expanded Club World Cup, which will feature 32 club teams from around the world. Notable participants include Real Madrid, Bayern Munich, Chelsea, Manchester City, and Paris Saint-Germain.
For Goalhanger, the deal offers a global platform to elevate its flagship podcast, now enhanced with official match content. The Rest Is Football is available on all major podcast platforms. A previous distribution agreement with BBC Sounds ended after Lineker’s departure from the BBC.
DAZN has committed USD $1 billion (AUD $1.5 billion) to secure global broadcasting rights for the tournament. All matches will be available to watch for free, with no subscription required.
This free access is part of DAZN’s strategy to attract a broader audience, generate revenue through advertising and other services such as betting and e-commerce, and potentially convert free users into paying subscribers.
To maximize reach and recoup its investment, DAZN has also signed free-to-air (FTA) television deals in several regions. Sublicensing arrangements are in place, including agreements with Channel 5 in the UK and Warner Bros. Discovery in the US, although financial details have not been disclosed.
Related topics:
- Referee Bobby Madley Slams VAR for Ruining Football’s Emotion
- Richard Dunne Praises Vincent Kompany’s Rise as Bayern Munich Coach
- Villanova Joins Patriot League Football as Associate Member Starting in 2026
