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 cofounder Roger Bennett last year and reduced his role at the company, Bennett has made big moves. The company’s podcast network boasts hosts including former USWNT star Sam Mewis and USMNT star Herculez Gomez. A podcast with global soccer insider Fabrizio Romano launched in 2021 and its NBC Sports television program has been on the air for over a decade.
With the new money, THR reports that Men In Blazers hopes to grow its talent roster to as many as 28 hosts.
The company wants 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 references the difficulty soccer fans face watching games in the streaming era. The new Men In Blazers investors clearly see potential for the company to become a clearinghouse for all soccer in this country. Unlike many of its counterparts, Men In Blazers found its way into funding at a time when others are downsizing or chasing acquisition.
About Brendon Kleen
Brendon is a Media Commentary staff writer at Awful Announcing. He has also covered basketball and sports business at Front Office Sports, SB Nation, Uproxx and more.