Gary Lineker is reportedly set to step down from the BBC, with an official announcement anticipated on Monday.
The 64-year-old is expected to present his final episode of Match of the Day next weekend, marking the end of an era for one of the broadcaster’s most recognisable figures.
Lineker, who remains the BBC’s highest-paid presenter, is also understood to be stepping away from future major sporting events, including the BBC’s coverage of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The decision follows a recent controversy involving a social media post Lineker shared that contained an image featuring a rat—a symbol historically linked to antisemitic imagery.
The post, which referenced Zionism, drew widespread criticism. Lineker later apologised, stating he regretted the reference and would never intentionally post antisemitic content.
He deleted the image after becoming aware of its implications.
BBC Director General Tim Davie addressed the incident last week, saying: “The BBC’s reputation is held by everyone, and when someone makes a mistake, it costs us.” According to reports, BBC executives deemed Lineker’s position increasingly untenable following the backlash.
This is not the first time Lineker has faced scrutiny over his social media activity. In March 2023, he was briefly suspended after comparing language used in government asylum policy to that of 1930s Nazi Germany—sparking a heated debate over impartiality and freedom of expression at the BBC.
Although Lineker announced in November 2024 that he would step down from Match of the Day, he had initially planned to remain with the BBC to present coverage of the FA Cup and the World Cup.
In a candid interview last month, Lineker hinted at tensions behind the scenes, saying: “Well, perhaps they want me to leave. There was the sense of that,” referring to contract negotiations that took place last year.
With Lineker’s departure now seemingly imminent, the BBC has announced that Kelly Cates, Mark Chapman, and Gabby Logan will take over hosting duties for Match of the Day starting in the 2025–26 season.