Gary Lineker Moves Football Podcast to Netflix for World Cup Coverage

Gary Lineker has entered a new phase of his broadcasting journey after signing a high-profile deal with Netflix, which will carry his popular podcast The Rest Is Football throughout next year’s World Cup. The show, hosted by Lineker alongside Alan Shearer and Micah Richards, normally releases three episodes a week. Under the new partnership, the podcast will switch to daily episodes for the entire duration of the tournament, giving fans consistent analysis and conversation on the sport’s biggest global stage.

A Fresh Start with Global Reach

This new chapter gives Lineker an expanded international platform to continue the football analysis that has made the podcast one of the most talked-about shows in the sports category. The shift to Netflix brings the programme to millions of subscribers worldwide, combining familiar chemistry between the hosts with a visual format designed for global football audiences. Lineker described the move as a fantastic opportunity to do what the trio love every day, explaining that the World Cup backdrop makes it even more special.

Daily Episodes Broadcast from New York

For the World Cup edition, the show will be filmed in a dedicated studio in New York. The hosts will dive into all major fixtures with match analysis, reactions to dramatic moments and lighthearted commentary that has become the show’s trademark. Special guests, expert interviews and insights from reporters connected to the England camp and fan zones across North America will add depth to each episode. The tournament, which will take place across the United States, Canada and Mexico, will offer endless talking points for the team.

Netflix Expands Its Sports and Podcast Strategy

Netflix has steadily been building its podcast and sports-related content. The addition of The Rest Is Football is its most significant step into football-themed programming so far. The streamer views the podcast as a key part of its strategy to compete with platforms known for hosting sports conversation, including YouTube. The show’s production will remain under Goalhanger, the company co-founded by Lineker, which also produces The Rest Is Politics, The Rest Is Entertainment, and several other successful formats. Netflix believes The Rest Is Football will appeal to a broad international audience, especially during the world’s most-watched sporting event.

Audio Versions Will Still Be Available

While the visualised version will be exclusive to Netflix during the World Cup, fans who prefer audio platforms will still be able to listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and other podcast apps. This hybrid distribution ensures the show’s loyal listeners are not left behind while also opening the door to millions of new viewers who consume sports content through streaming. Lineker says the aim is to keep the show true to its roots while expanding its reach in a way that enhances the fan experience.

Lineker’s Growing Media Portfolio

Alongside the Netflix project, Lineker has another major television role coming next year. He is set to host a new ITV game show called The Box. The programme features ten celebrities placed inside giant yellow boxes and transported to unexpected locations. As soon as the boxes open, contestants must take on surprise challenges, making it a fast-paced format designed for entertainment. Lineker’s involvement adds star power to the series, further broadening his presence across multiple platforms. He also recently earned recognition as best TV presenter at the National Television Awards, a moment that marked the end of a twenty-three-year streak by fellow presenters Ant and Dec.