**Gary Lineker’s ‘The Rest Is Football’ Podcast Finds a New Home at DAZN After BBC Departure**
In a significant development for football media, Gary Lineker’s widely followed podcast, *The Rest Is Football*, has been acquired by DAZN, a major player in sports streaming, following Lineker’s much-discussed departure from the BBC. This move marks a notable shift in the podcast’s platform and promises fresh content for football fans on a new digital stage.
The podcast, which Lineker co-hosts with renowned pundits Alan Shearer and Micah Richards, has swiftly garnered a broad following due to its blend of insider commentary, entertaining anecdotes, and candid analysis of the footballing world. Under its new arrangement with DAZN, *The Rest Is Football* will feature expanded video content, including exclusive coverage and highlights from the forthcoming FIFA Club World Cup, enhancing the viewing experience for its loyal audience.
Pete Oliver, DAZN’s chief executive overseeing growth markets, highlighted the appeal of the partnership in a statement: “*The Rest Is Football* is essential viewing and listening for fans who demand authentic insight and lively debate. By bringing the podcast to DAZN, we’re not only connecting viewers with the personalities they trust but also offering up the Club World Cup in a uniquely British and engaging format.” This engagement, Oliver suggests, is part of DAZN’s broader mission to deepen the relationship between fans and global football competitions.
DAZN itself, founded in 2015, has rapidly expanded its global footprint, boasting over 20 million subscribers as of last year. The platform is best known for its high-profile coverage of boxing events, major football leagues, and other international sports, making it a strong fit for Lineker’s podcast, which also enjoys widespread appeal beyond the UK.
The transition of *The Rest Is Football* to DAZN follows its recent removal from the BBC’s audio platforms, a decision closely tied to Gary Lineker’s exit from the broadcaster. The former England striker and long-time presenter parted company with the BBC following controversy ignited by a social media post he authored, which included an image and message widely interpreted as antisemitic. Lineker later issued a full and unequivocal apology in the wake of the incident.
Consequently, Lineker departed prematurely from his flagship roles at the BBC, most notably stepping down from *Match of the Day*, a show he had hosted since 1999, as well as relinquishing responsibilities for the broadcaster’s coverage of major tournaments including the upcoming 2026 World Cup and next season’s FA Cup. His final appearance on *Match of the Day* aired on 25th May 2025, bringing an era to a close for many long-time viewers.
Reflecting on his last broadcast, Lineker spoke candidly on his podcast about the emotional toll of leaving such a storied role. “I was a bit tired, and a bit emotional last night,” he shared. “When they played the montage, I was struggling to keep myself together — especially when I saw my boys. Thankfully, that wasn’t the last clip because at that point, I needed a moment to regain my composure.”
Fans and colleagues alike have expressed mixed feelings about the end of Lineker’s tenure at the BBC, recognising his long-standing contributions to sports broadcasting, which also included coverage of significant events such as the 2012 London Olympics.
Looking forward, the collaboration between *The Rest Is Football* and DAZN represents an evolution not only for the podcast but also for the way football discussion is delivered to audiences in the digital age. With the inclusion of international events like the Club World Cup—where storied clubs such as Real Madrid, River Plate, and Urawa Red Diamonds will be competing in the United States—the podcast aims to provide both fresh perspectives and enhanced visual coverage to a global fanbase.
As the football media landscape continues to evolve, Lineker and his co-hosts appear well-placed to remain influential voices in the conversation, ensuring that fans receive up-to-date insights and entertainment, no matter the platform. The move to DAZN may well mark the start of an exciting new chapter for one of football’s most popular podcasts.