The Rest Is Football’s transition to Netflix during the 2026 FIFA World Cup is explored in a new behind-the-scenes film from Goalhanger.
The documentary follows the podcast’s journey from Gary Lineker’s first meeting with Goalhanger co-founder Tony Pastor to its daily production in New York, offering insights into how the show adapted its established audio and video format for one of the world’s largest streaming platforms.
The film features contributions from Lineker, Alan Shearer, Micah Richards, Joe Cole and members of the Goalhanger team, taking viewers inside the Times Square studio and highlighting the creative process behind the move.
During its 40-day run of daily episodes filmed in New York, The Rest Is Football appeared in Netflix’s Daily Top 10 TV chart every day, reaching number one in the UK.
The documentary also examines the chemistry between the hosts and the importance of maintaining the podcast’s original tone, even as it expanded into a daily television production.
Tony Pastor commented on the collaboration: “The Rest Is Football on Netflix came about because Netflix wanted to be part of the national conversation.
“During a major sporting tournament, there is a tendency for people to say, ‘Well, there’s so much football on that we can pause our Netflix viewing and come back in a month.’ Netflix said, ‘No, we want to be part of that national conversation.’”
Gary Lineker reflected on the team’s efforts: “To do a show that’s been enjoyed so much without having the action is a testament to our team here. It’s a big team, whether it’s the crews here, the people from New York, everyone back home or the Netflix team. Everyone’s got on beautifully.”
Alan Shearer noted the freedom the podcast format allows: “I’ve got to be really careful because I can say what I want and swear on the podcast. I mean, I’d get sacked if I did that on the BBC. I can say what I want on here, so I’ve got to find the right balance, you know.”
Following the conclusion of the World Cup series, The Rest Is Football will continue on Netflix under a new two-year agreement.
Watch the full film on YouTube.
