Gary Lineker to leave the BBC after this weekend’s MOTD

Gary Lineker has confirmed he will leave the BBC after this Sunday’s Match of the Day, describing it as “the responsible course of action”.

The former England striker has fronted the BBC’s football coverage for over 25 years and, while he was going to step back from MOTD duties after the weekend, he was due to stay on to present next season FA Cup coverage and lead the corporation’s team at the 2026 World Cup.

But having been at the centre of controversy in recent years for airing political and social views on social media – which is at odds with the BBC’s rules on impartiality – his position came under scrutiny again last week after he shared a social media post about Zionism that included an illustration of a rat, historically used as an anti-semitic insult.

I recognise the error and upset I caused – Lineker

Lineker removed the post and apologised but both he and the BBC have confirmed his departure will now be brought forward.

He 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.”

Davie hails Lineker’s contribution

Tim Davie, the BBC’s director general, added: “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.”