Gary Lineker, one of the most recognisable faces in British football broadcasting, has officially moved his widely followed podcast, The Rest Is Football, to streaming platform DAZN, following his recent departure from the BBC. The move signals more than just a change in address — it reflects a broader shift in how media, streaming rights, and talent-driven content are converging in the digital sports era.
From Public Broadcaster to Streaming Powerhouse
Previously housed on traditional platforms, The Rest Is Football—co-hosted by former England stars Alan Shearer and Micah Richards—has become a fan-favourite for its blend of sharp football insights, banter, and stories from behind the scenes. The podcast’s move to DAZN will see a video-first production, with exclusive content linked to the FIFA Club World Cup, a property DAZN holds global streaming rights for.
DAZN will not only host the full podcast in video format but also integrate tournament highlights and insider discussions, giving the 32-team Club World Cup a unique editorial platform tailored to football’s most loyal fan communities.
“This partnership is a brilliant way to bring the FIFA Club World Cup even closer to fans. It’s about connecting global football with the voices fans trust and love,” said Pete Oliver, DAZN’s CEO of Growth Markets, via GOAL.com.
Lineker’s Exit from the BBC
Lineker’s transition follows a high-profile and emotional exit from the BBC, where he anchored Match of the Day for over two decades. His departure came after controversy surrounding a social media post, culminating in his final appearance on May 25. Although initial plans had him staying on for future BBC events, including the 2026 World Cup, the broadcaster has now confirmed that Kelly Cates, Mark Chapman, and Gabby Logan will step in as successors.
Lineker, in a heartfelt farewell, described his last show as “emotional,” particularly during a tribute montage featuring his family. The moment underscored the legacy he leaves behind—and the personal weight of the transition.
Strategic Implications: Talent + IP = Streaming Gold
The partnership is more than a talent acquisition for DAZN. It’s a content strategy play that aligns three high-value assets:
- A major footballing icon with global appeal.
- A beloved, insight-rich podcast with a loyal base.
- A major FIFA property in need of accessible, narrative-driven coverage.
DAZN gains a storytelling vehicle that humanises and contextualises the Club World Cup, which often suffers from low engagement despite being a flagship event. With Lineker and team, DAZN can embed football culture and player-focused narratives into its tournament coverage—creating hooks that go beyond the live 90 minutes.
The Bigger Picture: The Rise of Streamer-First Commentary Brands
This move reflects a growing trend in sports media where distribution platforms like DAZN, Amazon, and Apple aren’t just acquiring rights—they’re building ecosystems. With talent-led shows like The Rest Is Football, these platforms blur the lines between broadcast, podcast, and social content.
Expect more partnerships where:
- Influencers and legends act as front-facing storytellers.
- Streaming platforms double as media production houses.
- Rights properties are wrapped in editorial formats to drive reach and retention.
What Brands and Rights Holders Should Do Next
For sports organisations and commercial partners, this evolution offers strategic direction:
- Develop owned content formats with ex-players and influencers to supplement live coverage.
- Align storytelling with tournament milestones to drive episodic engagement.
- Create branded integrations inside podcasts and shows, rather than interruptive ads.
- Use audio/video IP as leverage in rights negotiations—editorial value adds monetisation potential beyond live rights.
Final Word
Gary Lineker’s pivot to DAZN isn’t just a headline—it’s a blueprint for how sports personalities, streaming rights, and content innovation will shape the future of fan engagement.
As the Club World Cup approaches in July, The Rest Is Football may well be the new gateway through which millions discover the tournament—and DAZN establishes itself as more than a broadcaster, but as a storytelling powerhouse.
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