Men in Blazers Media Network

Background

Founded in 2010 by British-American broadcaster Roger Bennett and British television producer Michael Davies, Men in Blazers Media Network has evolved into the largest independent soccer-focused media company in North America. The network's mission is to provide comprehensive, engaging, and humorous coverage of global football, catering to the rapidly growing American soccer fanbase. Their vision encompasses delivering authentic and entertaining content across multiple platforms, including podcasts, television, digital media, and live events. Men in Blazers has become a significant voice in U.S. soccer media, known for its unique blend of humor, emotion, and insightful analysis.

Key Strategic Focus

Men in Blazers' strategic focus centers on expanding its content offerings and audience reach ahead of the 2026 FIFA Men's World Cup, which will be hosted in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. The network aims to super-serve the passionate and rapidly growing U.S. soccer community by creating premium content that covers men's and women's football, both domestically and internationally. This includes launching new programming, enhancing existing shows, and developing platforms that cater to diverse demographics within the soccer fanbase.

Financials and Funding

In January 2025, Men in Blazers announced the closing of a $15 million Series A funding round led by Avenue Sports Fund, headed by Marc Lasry, Co-Founder and CEO of Avenue Capital Group. Additional investors include Bolt Ventures, led by David Blitzer; RR McReynolds, co-founded by Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney; The Chernin Group, founded by Peter Chernin; Ryan Sports Ventures; and Wheelhouse, founded by Brent Montgomery. The capital is intended to expand the network's coverage and programming in anticipation of the 2026 World Cup, including the development of live events and new content platforms.

Pipeline Development

Men in Blazers has been actively expanding its content portfolio:

"Here We Go" Podcast: In March 2023, the network added Italian journalist Fabrizio Romano's biweekly podcast, focusing on transfer news and inside stories from the football world.

"Vamos" Podcast: Hosted by former USMNT player Herculez Gomez, this podcast covers Mexican soccer leagues and is set to transition to a biweekly format in June 2023.

"The Women's Game": Led by Editor-in-Chief Sam Mewis, along with Becky Sauerbrunn and Lynn Williams, this vertical focuses on women's soccer, including the NWSL and international competitions.

Acquisition of USMNT Only: In February 2025, Men in Blazers acquired USMNT Only, a popular fan site dedicated to the U.S. Men's National Team, to enhance its coverage leading up to the 2026 World Cup.

Technological Platform and Innovation

Men in Blazers leverages a multi-platform approach to deliver content:

Podcasts: The network produces over 210 podcasts annually, available on all major platforms.

Television: The "Men in Blazers" TV show airs on NBC's Peacock network, currently in its 11th season.

Digital Media: Content is distributed through YouTube, Twitch streams, and weekly newsletters, reaching an audience of over 30 million people annually.

Live Events: The network organizes live tours and events, bringing together soccer fans across the United States.

Leadership Team

Roger Bennett: Founder and CEO, British-American broadcaster, podcaster, and filmmaker. Bennett has been instrumental in shaping the network's content and strategic direction.

Michael Davies: Co-founder and former co-host, British television producer. Davies left the podcast in April 2024 to focus on other ventures.

Leadership Changes

In April 2024, Michael Davies departed from the "Men in Blazers" podcast to concentrate on his other business endeavors. Roger Bennett continues to lead the network as CEO.

Competitor Profile

Market Insights and Dynamics

The U.S. soccer media landscape is experiencing significant growth, driven by increasing interest in domestic and international competitions, particularly with the upcoming 2026 World Cup. This expansion presents opportunities for media networks to cater to a diverse and engaged audience.

Competitor Analysis

Key competitors in the soccer media space include:

ESPN FC: Offers comprehensive soccer coverage, including news, analysis, and live broadcasts.

The Athletic: Provides in-depth soccer journalism and analysis through a subscription-based model.

Fox Soccer: Delivers soccer content, including live matches and commentary, focusing on various leagues and tournaments.

These competitors focus on delivering timely news, expert analysis, and live coverage, catering to the growing demand for soccer content in the U.S. market.

Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships

Men in Blazers has established several significant partnerships:

PrizePicks: In December 2023, the network designated PrizePicks as its exclusive fantasy sports partner, integrating co-branded media across all audio programming.

Wondery: Serves as the exclusive audio sales and distribution partner, facilitating the expansion of the network's podcast reach.

Twitch: Collaborates on developing live streaming formats and sponsorship opportunities, enhancing audience engagement.

Brand Partnerships: Collaborations with brands such as Budweiser, Coca-Cola, Volkswagen, DoorDash, Hublot, and Jägermeister have contributed to the network's growth and revenue.

Operational Insights

Men in Blazers differentiates itself through a unique blend of humor, cultural references, and deep soccer knowledge, fostering a loyal and engaged community. The network's multi-platform presence allows it to reach a broad audience, while strategic partnerships and acquisitions position it competitively in the evolving soccer media landscape.

Strategic Opportunities and Future Directions

With the 2026 World Cup approaching, Men in Blazers is poised to capitalize on the heightened interest in soccer. Plans include:

Live Event Expansion: Developing a traveling roadshow akin to ESPN's "College GameDay" for major events.

Women's Soccer Coverage: Enhancing content related to women's soccer through "The Women's Game" vertical.

Hispanic Audience Engagement: Expanding the "Vamos" podcast into a standalone vertical targeting Hispanic soccer fans.

These initiatives aim to strengthen the network's position as a leading voice in soccer media and cater to the diverse interests of the American soccer community.

Contact Information

Website: Men in Blazers Official Website

Social Media:

Twitter: @MenInBlazers

Instagram: @meninblazers

Facebook: Men in Blazers

YouTube: Men in Blazers

TikTok: @meninblazers

Men in Blazers continues to innovate and expand its offerings, solidifying its role as a central hub for soccer storytelling and fan engagement in North America.