Former England football captain Gary Lineker announced on Monday that he will be leaving the BBC at the end of the season. This decision comes shortly after Lineker shared a social media post containing antisemitic imagery. The BBC’s highest-paid presenter was set to cover the 2026 World Cup and next season’s FA Cup but will now be stepping down after this Sunday’s Match of the Day.
In a statement, the BBC confirmed Lineker’s departure, stating that he will not be part of the network’s coverage for the upcoming events. Last week, Lineker shared an Instagram story about Zionism that included an illustration of a rat, which is historically associated with antisemitism. Despite removing the post and issuing an apology, Lineker reiterated that he was unaware of the post’s antisemitic implications.
BBC director-general Tim Davie acknowledged Lineker’s mistake and announced that Lineker will be stepping back from his presenting role after this season. Lineker, known for his outspoken views on social media, has been a prominent figure in football coverage for the BBC for over two decades. His departure marks the end of a 26-year tenure as the host of Match of the Day.
Before his career in media, Lineker was a renowned football star, winning the World Cup Golden Boot for England in 1986. Following his playing career, Lineker transitioned into punditry and became the lead presenter for the BBC’s football coverage in 1999. Additionally, Lineker is the co-founder of Goalhanger Podcasts, known for producing popular series like The Rest Is History.
Despite his contributions to the BBC, Lineker’s social media presence has previously caused controversies, leading to his temporary removal from air in 2023. The network launched an independent review of its social media guidelines as a result of the incident. Lineker’s departure comes as a significant change for the BBC, as they bid farewell to one of their most recognizable faces in sports broadcasting.
