Zac Goldsmith, a former Conservative minister, is launching a new sports radio station named trkradio ahead of the men's football World Cup scheduled for this summer. The Track Radio Corporation has recently received a license from Ofcom, allowing them to operate the station, with Goldsmith and his brother Ben among the primary investors. The station is set to air for the first time next month, with more details regarding presenters and financial backers expected soon.

Sources involved in the project have indicated that trkradio aims to provide more than just traditional football discussions; it aspires to deliver a diverse range of sports content and reflective conversations. The inclusion of music in its programming also suggests a desire to appeal to a broader audience besides just sports enthusiasts. This strategic positioning may set it apart in a market that is often dominated by established channels.

The operational aspects of trkradio will be managed by Iain Macintosh, a former executive at the Athletic, and Jonathan Arendt, who has a background as the former commercial director at LBC. With these experienced individuals at the helm, trkradio is poised to compete with other major players in the field, such as BBC’s Radio 5 Live and Radio 5, as it seeks to carve out its niche in the sports broadcasting landscape.