Gary Lineker, the legendary host of BBC’s Match of the Day, is done with the corporation this coming week. This decision means the beginning of a new era for the much-loved football program. His last hearing is set for May 25 — the end of the current lame-duck season for the football bad boys. Lineker has hosted the show since 1999, and in the years since he’s become something of an institution in British sports broadcasting. At the same time, for the last seven years, he has been the BBC’s highest-paid on-air talent.
Lineker’s resignation was announced after he disclosed in November that he would be leaving after the current season. We’ve just learned that his decision is now official. At 64 years old, Lineker’s decision to leave follows a controversial period that included discussions around a social media post he shared, which he claimed was not intended to be antisemitic and contradicted his personal beliefs.
Lineker’s period as host – over a quarter of a century – saw him become the face of FIFA World Cup football highlights on the BBC. He was due back for the 2026 World Cup, and to keep covering the FA Cup. Sadly though, he will not be taking to the stage at the World Cup next year. This change marks a huge departure from BBC’s sports programming landscape.
As the network prepares for his departure, Mark Chapman, Kelly Cates and Gabby Logan will be available to fill his shoes as hosts. Though they’ll be playing the roles first for Match of the Day next summer! This is no ordinary transition! For the first time in its near two-decade history, three people will split this role.
As fans and friends, and even grumpy work colleagues, we now mourn Gary Lineker’s transformative career. We anticipate further confirmation of his departure from the BBC on Monday. His impact on the art of football broadcasting has cemented his legacy as a household name and one of the most revered figures in sports journalism.
“I never knowingly share anything antisemitic.” – Gary Lineker
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