Gary Lineker’s Podcast Empire Flourishes with £1.4 Million Profit
Gary Lineker, the celebrated presenter of Match of the Day and the BBC’s highest-paid employee, has seen his podcast venture, Goalhanger Podcasts, achieve remarkable success. Founded in 2019, the company has rapidly become one of the world’s leading producers of podcasts, with its shows consistently topping charts and attracting millions of listeners. The latest published accounts reveal that Goalhanger Podcasts recorded a staggering £1.4 million profit last year, a testament to its growing popularity and financial acumen.
Significant Growth in Assets and Earnings
The financial performance of Goalhanger Podcasts is nothing short of impressive. Over the last 12 months, the company’s retained earnings have jumped from £590,000 in 2023 to £2.03 million, marking a significant increase of £1.4 million. This surge in earnings is complemented by a substantial rise in cash reserves, which grew from £560,000 to £2.7 million. The company’s success is also reflected in its expanding workforce, with the number of employees increasing from seven to 16 over the last financial year. This growth underscores the company’s commitment to quality content and its ability to scale operations to meet the demands of its growing audience.
Popular Podcasts and Audience Engagement
Goalhanger Podcasts’ success is driven by its diverse and popular lineup of shows. Gary Lineker himself hosts "The Rest Is Football," a weekly podcast that delves into the sport’s biggest talking points, alongside fellow BBC pundits Alan Shearer and Micah Richards. This show, along with others like "The Rest Is Politics" and "The Rest Is History," has garnered a massive following. "The Rest Is Politics," hosted by political figures Alastair Campbell and Rory Stewart, and "The Rest Is History," presented by Dominic Sandbrook and Tom Holland, have also become household names. According to the company, its 13 key shows have amassed over 400 million audio downloads and more than 85 million views on YouTube across 2024. During Euro 2024, "The Rest Is Football" alone was downloaded 19.6 million times, highlighting its widespread appeal.
A Smart Business Opportunity
The success of Goalhanger Podcasts is a testament to Gary Lineker’s business acumen. Football finance expert Kieran Maguire, speaking to The Times, praised Lineker’s ability to identify and capitalize on business opportunities. "These figures are spectacular. Gary Lineker’s eye for a smart business opportunity is as keen as when he was playing football for England and scoring goals," Maguire said. "This raft of podcasts run by Goalhanger are now among the most popular in the country, and all the parties involved have benefited significantly as a result." Lineker’s entrepreneurial spirit and strategic vision have undoubtedly played a crucial role in the company’s success.
Future Plans and BBC Commitments
Despite stepping down from his role as the host of Match of the Day in May 2023, after a 25-year stint, Lineker remains committed to the BBC. He will continue to host the channel’s coverage of the 2026 World Cup and the FA Cup in the 2025/26 season. "It felt like the right time," Lineker explained. "The BBC and Match of the Day have the rights for another three years, and it felt like a natural point to step aside. I wanted to finish on a major tournament and continue with the FA Cup. So, you haven’t got rid of me just yet." This transition demonstrates Lineker’s strategic approach to his career, ensuring a smooth handover while maintaining his presence in the media landscape.
A Legacy of Success and Innovation
Gary Lineker’s podcast company, Goalhanger Podcasts, is a shining example of how traditional media professionals can adapt and thrive in the digital age. The company’s ability to produce high-quality, engaging content across multiple genres has not only attracted a loyal audience but has also set a new benchmark for podcast production. As the company continues to expand and innovate, it is well-positioned to maintain its leading status in the rapidly growing podcast market. With Lineker at the helm, Goalhanger Podcasts is poised to achieve even greater heights in the years to come.
