Exploring the Fascinating History of the World Cup and More: Top Podcasts of the Week

The Lead: Top Podcasts of the Week

This week, we feature a selection of engaging podcasts that explore a range of topics, from the history of the World Cup to politics, true crime, and sports.

Our Copa: Uncovering the History of the World Cup

Former US soccer player Merritt Mathias and journalists Musa Okwonga and Julio Ricardo Varela team up to create a fascinating podcast that traces the history of how global power has tried to influence the game and make it political. Their journey begins with the 1934 World Cup in Mussolini's Italy, which Uruguay boycotted.

The Rest Is Politics: Who Funds Reform?

This four-part podcast, a collaboration between Goalhanger and the Observer, examines the funding model of Reform and Nigel Farage's finances. The podcast aims to answer alarming questions about the future of the UK and the influence of shady donations from crypto tycoons.

Slander & Slay: Sports and Popular Culture

US sports reporters Tracy Sandler and Nikki Kay co-host this podcast, which analyzes the stories that sit at the crossroads of popular culture and sport, from the NBA's 'celebrity rows' to basketball player Josh Hart's recent decision to bring a glass of red wine to a press conference.

If You Please … Himan Brown's Radio Mystery Theater

This podcast celebrates the life and work of Himan Brown, a legend of American radio, and his 1970s horror anthology series. The podcast combines archive recordings of classic episodes with behind-the-scenes intel from Brown scholar John Slavney.

True Crime: Dissected

Investigative reporter Paul Connolly and forensic psychiatrist Sohom Das team up to create a podcast that adds expertise to the true crime formula. They begin by examining hate crimes in Golders Green and Charleston.