The preeminent soccer media brand in the U.S. is leveling up once again as Men In Blazers has announced a Series A raise of $15 million, which it will use to “nearly double” its roster of hosts and launch ambitious new shows. According to The Hollywood Reporter, the fundraising round was led by prominent venture capitalists like former Milwaukee Bucks owner Marc Lasry, Wrexham AFC owners Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenny, and Peter Chernin.
Since Michael Davies split from fellow co-founder Roger Bennett last year and reduced his role at the company, Bennett has made significant moves. The company’s podcast network boasts hosts including former USWNT star Sam Mewis and USMNT star Herculez Gomez. With the new funding, THR reports that Men In Blazers aims to expand its talent roster to as many as 28 hosts.
The company intends to launch a show “modeled after ESPN’s College GameDay” and “stitch together” all the various soccer fandoms that intersect in America. “The goal is to do that all year round, that whenever there’s major football, anything we’re able to go across the nation, bring together football fans and broadcast it live,” Bennett told The Hollywood Reporter.
The THR story also highlights the challenges soccer fans encounter when trying to watch games in the streaming era. The new Men In Blazers investors see potential for the company to be a central hub for all soccer in the U.S. However, despite its long-standing popularity and starry partnerships, the company has struggled to maintain consistent projects. A podcast with global soccer insider Fabrizio Romano that launched in 2021 ended last October, and its NBC Sports television program lasted four seasons but has not aired since early 2024. Additionally, one-off partnerships with the political network Crooked Media and ESPN+ produced interesting content that ultimately fizzled.
This situation reflects a broader trend among many production houses in 2024. Yet, unlike many of its counterparts, Men In Blazers successfully secured funding at a time when others are downsizing or pursuing acquisitions.
