Gary Lineker, the famed footballer-turned-presenter, is reportedly bidding adieu to the BBC soon, with an official announcement expected on Monday. The 64-year-old is said to be stepping down after his final Match of the Day appearance next weekend, adding fuel to the speculation. As the highest-paid presenter at the BBC, Lineker will also no longer host the network’s coverage of the 2026 World Cup. Last week, Lineker found himself in hot water for sharing a controversial social media post about Zionism, featuring an illustration of a rat, which is a historically antisemitic symbol.
The BBC’s Director General, Tim Davie, expressed concerns about maintaining the network’s reputation in light of Lineker’s recent misstep, stating that mistakes made by individuals reflect poorly on the entire organization. It appears that BBC executives deemed Lineker’s position to be untenable following the incident. This isn’t the first time Lineker has faced backlash for his social media activity, as he was previously suspended in 2023 for remarks about a government policy, drawing parallels to Nazi Germany. The BBC subsequently revised its social media guidelines for flagship program presenters, emphasizing the importance of upholding impartiality.
Lineker announced his departure from Match of the Day in November 2024 but intended to continue hosting FA Cup and World Cup coverage. Despite his past controversies, Lineker remains a respected figure in the industry, with new hosts lined up for Match of the Day in the upcoming season. In a recent interview, Lineker hinted at exploring new career avenues beyond television, possibly delving into the podcast world. While some applaud Lineker’s outspoken nature, others question the appropriateness of a high-profile presenter engaging in political discourse. Nonetheless, Lineker’s departure marks the end of an era at the BBC, leaving behind a legacy of football analysis and candid commentary.
