**Gary Lineker’s Football Podcast to Depart BBC Sounds Following Social Media Controversy**
Gary Lineker’s popular football podcast, “The Rest Is Football”, will end its presence on BBC Sounds this week in the wake of a social media controversy, signalling another significant shift for the former footballer and long-time broadcaster. The development follows Lineker’s early departure from the BBC, announced after an incident involving one of his social media posts that referenced Zionism and included a rat emoji, an image historically associated with antisemitic tropes.
The BBC confirmed that after this weekend’s final episode of “Match Of The Day” with Lineker at the helm, he will step down from his presenting duties. This means he will not be hosting the corporation’s coverage of the FA Cup, nor will he front the BBC’s programme for the upcoming 2026 World Cup. The news brings an end to Lineker’s remarkably long association with the BBC, where he has been a leading figure on “Match Of The Day” since 1999.
“The Rest Is Football”, co-hosted by Lineker alongside fellow pundits Alan Shearer and Micah Richards, will have its last episode on BBC Sounds imminently. However, it is understood that the series, produced by Lineker’s Goalhanger Podcasts, will continue to be available through other major podcast platforms. Notably, another show from the Goalhanger stable, “The Rest Is History”, will remain featured on the BBC’s audio streaming service.
Last November, BBC Sounds secured a one-year licensing agreement to broadcast both “The Rest Is Football” and “The Rest Is History”, with the option for the podcasts to remain on the service for three years. At the time, the collaboration was celebrated as a boost for audio content on the platform, with the two shows attracting substantial audiences. The ensuing controversy, however, has clearly altered the trajectory of Lineker’s on-air commitments.
In a video apology released following the incident, Lineker, who has built a reputation as one of the corporation’s highest-paid and most recognisable presenters, acknowledged his error and the need to step away from the BBC entirely. He explained he had missed the presence of the contentious emoji in the post he shared, which led to widespread criticism. Lineker reiterated his strong stance against all forms of racism, including antisemitism, asserting that he “absolutely abhors” such prejudice.
The Metropolitan Police has since stated it will review the matter following several public complaints regarding the offending social media post. This has fuelled further debate about the responsibilities of high-profile personalities when using their personal platforms.
In response to the furore, Andrew Gilbert, vice president of the Board of Deputies of British Jews, has called for the BBC to offer comprehensive antisemitism training to its employees. The calls highlight continuing concerns around sensitivity and awareness within prominent institutions.
This is not the first time Lineker’s social media activity has resulted in friction with the BBC. He was previously suspended in March 2023 after criticism of government asylum policy sparked an impartiality row. Notably, Lineker has also been vocal on other contentious topics, such as signing an open letter alongside public figures urging the BBC to rebroadcast the documentary “Gaza: How To Survive A War Zone” on its iPlayer service.
For many admirers, Lineker’s departure from the BBC represents the end of an era. His leadership on “Match Of The Day” helped define football television coverage for more than two decades. Nevertheless, the decision reflects evolving standards and expectations for public figures, particularly regarding digital conduct and the impact of social media in the modern media landscape.
As “The Rest Is Football” takes its final bow on BBC Sounds, attention now shifts to how Lineker and his co-presenters will reshape their public voices independently of the broadcaster that has long been their home. The discussion also reignites broader questions about the intersection of personal expression, public responsibility, and the future direction for one of football’s most recognisable broadcasters.