### Gary Lineker’s Lasting Legacy Celebrated as Rio Ferdinand Shares On-Set Gesture
Veteran football broadcaster Gary Lineker has received a wave of appreciation and tributes following his last appearance on the BBC’s iconic ‘Match of the Day’ programme, marking the end of a momentous 26-year chapter. Lineker, who became the face of British football broadcasting for more than two decades, was lauded not just for his presenting prowess but for the camaraderie and kindness he extended to colleagues behind the scenes.
Amid heartfelt messages from across the sporting world, former Manchester United defender and respected pundit Rio Ferdinand notably reflected on his earliest encounter with Lineker in the world of broadcasting. Drawing on memories from the 2014 World Cup in Brazil, Ferdinand credited Lineker for helping him settle into his new role during his transition from pitch to punditry. With millions watching, Ferdinand recalled Lineker’s efforts to create a supportive atmosphere on set—an act he described as “making things easier” for a newcomer to live television.
Ferdinand, who has since become a prominent face on TNT Sports, took to social media to share his gratitude. “Great presenter, looked after me and made things easier on set when I first went into broadcasting at the World Cup in Rio 2014! Part of the furniture for all those years… will be missed on a Saturday night, no doubt. A quarter of a century,” Ferdinand posted. His comments highlighted the understated influence Lineker has had on numerous professionals entering the broadcasting arena.
Lineker’s departure follows weeks of speculation and controversy, including a publicised dispute with the BBC over issues related to antisemitism. Despite the abrupt nature of his farewell, he maintained poise and dignity during his final sign-off, expressing his sense of privilege and gratitude towards both viewers and colleagues. “It wasn’t meant to end this way,” Lineker noted, referencing the unsettled circumstances surrounding his exit, adding: “It’s been an absolute privilege to have hosted Match of the Day for a quarter of a century. It’s been utterly joyous.”
In his farewell address, Lineker paid special tribute to the viewers who tuned in each week, many of whom had grown up with his unmistakable style and wit. “And my final thank you goes to all of you. Thank you for watching, thank you for all your love and support over the years. It’s been so special,” he said, joking about England’s lower-league teams traditionally appearing last on the programme’s highlights reel.
The football community and beyond responded with a surge of tributes, underscoring just how far Lineker’s influence had reached. Fellow pundits Alan Shearer, Micah Richards, and Ian Wright, among others, joined in saluting his contribution. Messages of appreciation were also shared by Premier League managers, including Liverpool’s Arne Slot, who reminisced about watching Lineker from Holland, and Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola, who commented: “You won’t believe it but you will be missed.”
Lineker’s impact was not limited to the world of sport. Political figures such as Labour’s John McDonnell praised the presenter’s fairness and principles, commending his “astute football judgement, fairness and wit” alongside his humanity in dealing with broader societal issues. Such accolades have underscored the breadth of admiration Lineker has earned throughout a lengthy and highly visible media career.
As the BBC prepares for a new era of ‘Match of the Day’, Gabby Logan, Mark Chapman, and Kelly Cates are poised to take over presenting duties for the forthcoming 2025/26 season. The transition signals both the end of an era and the beginning of another chapter for the flagship football programme.
Lineker’s legacy extends far beyond the television studio; his role as a mentor and example continues to influence both current and future generations of sports broadcasters. The outpouring of tributes reveals a man respected as much for his off-camera conduct as for his on-screen achievements, reminding audiences that the true mark of a broadcaster lies in both the work and the humanity they display.