The renowned presenter Gary Lineker will leave his position at the BBC after the last episode of the current season of Match of the Day, which will air on Sunday.
The chain also confirmed that it will not be at the forefront of the coverage of the 2026 World Cup, which will be held in the United States, Canada and Mexico, nor of the next season of the FA Cup.
The 64-year-old presenter’s departure comes after he apologized for sharing a social media post about Zionism that contained an image of a rat. This rodent has historically been used as an antisemitic insult.
Lineker, who is listed as the BBC’s highest-paid presenter, deleted the post amid strong criticism, stating that he would never knowingly share antisemitic content.
Football has been at the center of my life since I can remember, both on the field and in the studio. I care deeply about the game and the work I have done with the BBC for many years. As I have said, I would never knowingly publish anything antisemitic, it goes against everything I stand for.
Gary Lineker
Lineker added:
However, I recognize the error and the distress I caused, and I reiterate how much I regret it. Taking a step back now seems like the responsible action.
Gary Lineker
This is not the first time the former England striker’s activity on social media has been criticised.
In March 2023, Lineker was suspended by the BBC after making comments on social media criticizing the immigration policy of the government at that time.
Lineker calificó la política de asilo del gobierno como “inmensamente cruel” y dijo que el lenguaje utilizado era “no muy diferente al utilizado por Alemania en los años 30”.
Tim Davie, BBC Director-General, stated:
Gary has acknowledged the mistake he made. Consequently, we have agreed that he will step down from future presentations after this season. Gary has been a defining voice in football coverage for the BBC for over two decades. His passion and knowledge have shaped our sports journalism and earned him the respect of sports fans in the UK and beyond. We want to thank him for the contribution he has made.
Tim Davie
In November 2024, Lineker announced his upcoming departure from the channel’s flagship football program, but said he would remain at the BBC to present coverage of the FA Cup and the World Cup.
Speaking to the BBC last month, Lineker said he felt the chain wanted him to leave Match of the Day when he was negotiating a new contract.
Kelly Cates, Mark Chapman and Gabby Logan will present the program from the start of next season.
