Gary Lineker, the well-known presenter of Match Of The Day, is set to bid adieu to the BBC after the final episode of this season. He will no longer be gracing our screens with the coverage of the World Cup, according to reliable sources at Sky News. The departure follows Lineker’s recent social media blunder, where he shared a repost featuring a rat – a disturbing symbol used by Nazi Germany to dehumanize Jewish people. Despite Lineker’s swift apology and assertion that he would never intentionally share anything antisemitic, the incident has led to his upcoming exit from the BBC.
Lineker’s final appearance on the BBC is scheduled for May 25th, coinciding with the end of the current season. While he had previously announced his decision to step down from Match Of The Day earlier this year, Lineker had plans to return for the World Cup coverage in 2026, as well as the FA Cup. The 64-year-old former England star expressed his shock at unknowingly sharing an antisemitic post, stating that it goes against his core beliefs. However, despite his remorse, the Campaign Against Antisemitism called for Lineker’s disassociation from the BBC, deeming his continued presence untenable.
The controversy surrounding Lineker intensified when he was temporarily suspended from the BBC in March 2023 due to comments criticizing the Conservative government’s asylum policy. This suspension, coupled with the recent social media misstep, has raised concerns about Lineker’s reputation and credibility. In response to the situation, BBC director general Tim Davie emphasized the importance of upholding the broadcaster’s values in light of such incidents. Despite his long-standing tenure as the host of Match Of The Day since 1999, Lineker’s departure marks the end of an era at the BBC.
As Lineker prepares to take his final bow, the reins of Match Of The Day will be passed on to a new trio of presenters – Mark Chapman, Kelly Cates, and Gabby Logan. This transition signifies a significant change for the show, as it will be the first time in its history that the hosting duties will be shared among three individuals. The move reflects a shift in the broadcasting landscape, with fresh faces poised to bring their own unique flair to the iconic program. While Lineker’s departure may leave a void, the new lineup promises to inject new energy and perspectives into Match Of The Day, ensuring its continued success in the years to come.
