Gary Lineker will step down from the BBC following the final Match of the Day of the season on 25 May 2025, bringing an end to his long-standing role as one of the UK’s most prominent sports presenters. Sky News understands that Lineker will not return to present the BBC’s coverage of the 2026 World Cup or future FA Cup broadcasts.
The announcement comes shortly after Lineker issued an “unreserved apology” for reposting a social media image involving a rat, which was accused of being antisemitic. He said the content was shared unknowingly and did not reflect his values, stating it went against “everything I believe in.”
Controversy and Resignation
The 64-year-old former England international had previously confirmed in November that he would be stepping down from Match of the Day but was expected to continue leading the BBC’s major football event coverage, including the next World Cup in 2026.
However, the recent controversy around the repost appears to have brought forward his full departure. Lineker faced public criticism, prompting a clarification and apology, where he said he would “never knowingly share anything antisemitic.”
BBC Legacy
Lineker has hosted Match of the Day since 1999 and has been the BBC’s highest-paid on-air talent for seven consecutive years. His broadcasting career followed a distinguished playing career, including stints at Leicester City, Everton, Tottenham Hotspur, Barcelona, and England, for whom he scored 48 goals.
He was previously suspended in March 2023 amid a high-profile impartiality dispute over political comments on the UK government’s asylum policies. That incident triggered widespread staff walkouts in solidarity, though Lineker was later reinstated.
New Presenters Announced
The BBC has already confirmed his successors on Match of the Day, with Mark Chapman, Kelly Cates, and Gabby Logan set to rotate hosting duties from the 2025/26 season onward.
A formal announcement from the BBC is expected on Monday, confirming Lineker’s exit and acknowledging his contributions to the broadcaster’s football coverage.
Public and Industry Reaction
Lineker’s departure is expected to mark a significant shift in the BBC’s football programming. Social media reactions have ranged from support for his apology to criticism over his continued high-profile role following controversies.
