Gary Lineker’s Netflix deal could redefine his career, but can it really work? The move places him into a new kind of spotlight, one that blends podcasting with daily television exposure during the World Cup. And while this shift opens doors to a global audience, it also raises big questions about whether the venture will deliver.
A playful moment on The Rest Is Football (TRIF) captures the low-key charm of the show. Former Manchester City defender Micah Richards teases Alan Shearer, who humorously acknowledges Lineker’s 2025 standing as “the top dog,” while the three ex-footballers laugh together about Erling Haaland’s milestone. It’s the kind of camaraderie that has helped TRIF dominate the podcast market, with new episodes rolling out regularly and fans tuning in for the banter as much as the insights.
Goalhanger, the company behind TRIF and a slate of other programs like The Rest Is Politics, The Rest Is Entertainment, and The Rest Is History, has announced a Netflix deal to transform the football-focused edition into a daily TV show during next summer’s World Cup across North America. This represents not just a fresh opportunity for a single podcast, but a bold step for Lineker personally. Will this venture meet the demand, and can Lineker translate his podcast success into televised impact?
Netflix’s plan marks a major pivot. The show will depart from the trio’s usual home-office-style video calls and move into a polished New York studio setting. Reporters will join from the England camp and fan zones, with no explicit mention of Scotland in Netflix’s materials, though the World Cup spans multiple nations. Live match rights are not expected to belong to Netflix; those rights will likely stay with traditional broadcast partners.
Industry observers see this as a landmark collaboration for both the platform and its hosts. Video podcasts have surged in popularity as streaming services compete with YouTube, and Netflix’s expansion into sports and related content could broaden TRIF’s reach beyond its established UK audience. Netflix has already signaled interest in hosting sports, pop culture, and true-crime video podcasts, suggesting a broader strategy to diversify beyond traditional streaming fare.
For Lineker, the potential upside is immense. Analysts note that aligning with Netflix could help him capitalize on the growing popularity of football in the United States and other markets where streaming platforms have global reach. The partnership could solidify his status on the world stage and push his brand into unfamiliar territories where his charisma and commentary might attract new fans.
Money is a frequent topic in discussions around this move. Publications have hinted that the Netflix arrangement could significantly outpace Lineker’s BBC salary, though exact figures aren’t publicly disclosed. What’s clear is that Goalhanger, like many media ventures, relies on a mix of advertising, subscriptions, and live-event tickets for revenue. The company’s financials show growing earnings and increasing cash reserves, underscoring the ambition behind expanding the TRIF brand.
Yet, big-money ventures can be a double-edged sword. Some fans worry that the spectacle of a high-stakes deal could dilute the show’s authenticity or alienate long-time listeners who value the original format. Others argue that a shift toward broader appeal—including celebrity appearances—could broaden the audience without sacrificing core fans. The key challenge for Lineker will be balancing his personal views with his public persona, especially given his past departure from the BBC after controversial social media posts. Maintaining trust while pursuing new creative directions will be essential.
Goalhanger’s evolution into a podcasting empire began with Lineker’s early forays into documentary-making and expanded into a prolific portfolio of shows. The company has achieved recognition, earning accolades and securing a strong foothold in the UK audio landscape. TRIF’s popularity is clear, with millions of listeners each month, though some critics grumble about advertising load or the dynamic of video calls in place of a single studio setup.
Looking ahead, the Netflix deal could serve as a blueprint for how sports personalities leverage streaming platforms to reach audiences beyond traditional media. Rory Smith of The Observer suggests that as World Cup coverage heats up, more broadcasters and former players will experiment with innovative formats aimed at broadening appeal. Viewers may find a mix of deeper tactical analysis and lighter, more accessible content that resonates with a diverse audience.
In short, the Netflix partnership presents a high-stakes experiment that blends talent, timing, and technology. Whether it becomes a lasting model or a flash in the pan will depend on audience reception, the evolving format, and how well Lineker and his colleagues adapt to a new medium. As fans anticipate the World Cup and the daily TV presence, one question remains central: will this bold reimagining of a beloved podcast translate into lasting success across screens and continents? Are you on board with this new direction, or do you prefer the traditional podcast format? Share your thoughts in the comments.
