Goalhanger Podcasts Secures Major US Investment for Global Expansion
The London-based media and production company Goalhanger, which was co-founded by former footballer and broadcaster Gary Lineker, has announced a significant milestone by securing its first external investment since its inception. The Chernin Group (TCG), a prominent US media investment firm, has acquired a minority stake in the business and will gain a seat on its board of directors.
Strategic Partnership with Media Mogul Peter Chernin
This investment marks a pivotal moment for Goalhanger, as it represents the initial infusion of external capital into the company. The Chernin Group is led by renowned media executive Peter Chernin, who has an impressive track record in the entertainment industry, having been involved in the production of major film franchises such as Planet Of The Apes and The Greatest Showman.
While the specific financial details and valuation of the deal have not been disclosed by Goalhanger's representatives, the partnership is expected to provide substantial resources for the company's ambitious growth plans.
Goalhanger's Impressive Podcast Portfolio and Performance
Goalhanger, which employs approximately 80 staff members, has established itself as a leading force in the UK podcasting scene. The company is responsible for producing some of the country's most popular podcast series, including:
- The Rest Is History
- The Rest Is Football
- The Rest Is Politics
These shows form part of a broader network of 14 podcasts that have achieved remarkable success. In 2025 alone, Goalhanger's content generated over 750 million full-episode views and streams, while also attracting around 250,000 paying subscribers to its premium offerings.
Expansion Plans and New Media Formats
The investment from The Chernin Group is set to accelerate Goalhanger's expansion into the United States market and support the development of new content formats. Company executives have indicated that they plan to explore opportunities across various media platforms, including television, film, written publications, and live experiential events.
In a joint statement, Goalhanger's founding partners Tony Pastor, Jack Davenport, and Gary Lineker expressed their enthusiasm for the partnership, stating: "Since we first met Peter and the TCG team more than a year ago, it has become increasingly clear that they share our vision for what Goalhanger can become, and are the perfect partner to help us realise that ambition."
The Chernin Group's Media Investment Portfolio
The Chernin Group brings considerable media expertise to this partnership, with existing investments in several notable media companies. Their portfolio includes actress Reese Witherspoon's production company Hello Sunshine and The New York Times' sports division, The Athletic. This background positions TCG as a valuable strategic partner for Goalhanger as it seeks to expand its global footprint and diversify its content offerings.
This investment represents a significant development in the media landscape, highlighting the growing importance of podcasting and digital content creation in the global entertainment industry.
