British sports commentator Gary Lineker is set to depart from the BBC following this weekend’s edition of Match Of The Day, it has been officially announced, reports Breaking News.
Lineker (64) will be leaving the broadcaster sooner than initially expected and will no longer host the BBC’s coverage of the 2026 World Cup or next season’s FA Cup, contrary to what had been previously planned.
He recently issued a full apology for sharing an Instagram story that referenced Zionism and included an image of a rat, which he later removed. He said: “I take full responsibility for this mistake. That image does not reflect my views,” reports Breaking News.
In his own statement, Lineker said: “Football has been at the heart of my life for as long as I can remember – both on the pitch and in the studio.
“I care deeply about the game, and about the work I’ve done with the BBC over many years. As I’ve said, I would never consciously repost anything antisemitic – it goes against everything I stand for. However, I recognise the error and upset that I caused, and reiterate how sorry I am. Stepping back now feels like the responsible course of action,” reports Breaking News.
BBC director-general Tim Davie commented: “Gary has acknowledged the mistake he made. Accordingly, we have agreed he will step back from further presenting 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 across the UK and beyond. We want to thank him for the contribution he has made,” reports Breaking News.
As the BBC’s highest-paid presenter, Lineker had been leading Match Of The Day since 1999. He had previously stated that he would step down from the show after this season but had intended to continue hosting coverage of the World Cup and FA Cup.
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