**Gary Lineker’s Departure from BBC’s Match of the Day: A Career Climax Shadowed by Controversy**
Sunday evening marks the end of an era for British television as Gary Lineker prepares to host his final edition of the BBC’s Match of the Day, concluding a broadcast career with the Corporation stretching nearly three decades. The 64-year-old former England striker has been the face of the nation’s premier football highlights programme since 1999. However, as his long tenure draws to a close, this departure arrives amid recent controversy and much public debate.
Lineker’s final outing comes after he recently became embroiled in a storm generated by his social media activity. The broadcaster found himself at the centre of criticism after sharing a post originally published by the Palestine Lobby on his Instagram story, titled ‘Zionism explained in two minutes’. What particularly inflamed tensions was the use of a rat motif in the post—an image that has long been associated with anti-Semitic propaganda, including that used by Nazi Germany during the 20th century.
Once aware of the post’s symbolism and the distress it had caused, Lineker swiftly deleted it and apologised. In an open statement, he admitted: “On Instagram I reposted material which I have since learned contained offensive references.” Stressing his opposition to hate and prejudice, he continued: “I would never knowingly share anything anti-Semitic. It goes against everything I believe in.”
Lineker went further to underscore the sincerity of his apology. “The post was removed as soon as I became aware of the issue. Whilst I strongly believe in the importance of speaking out on humanitarian issues, including the tragedy unfolding in Gaza, I also know that how we do so matters.” Taking ownership of the mistake, he added, “I take full responsibility for this mistake. That image does not reflect my views. It was an error on my part for which I apologise unreservedly.”
The timing of this controversy has inevitably cast a shadow over his final Match of the Day broadcast and his wider role at the BBC. Lineker had been the expected anchor for next year’s World Cup coverage in North America, but the current circumstances have altered those plans. He will not be leading the BBC’s broadcast team for the global tournament, signalling a definitive shift in both his and the BBC’s sporting future.
After 26 years as the lead presenter, Lineker will be passing the baton to a new team, with Gabby Logan, Mark Chapman and Kelly Cates tipped to front the weekly football round-up. Yet, despite stepping down from Match of the Day, Lineker was initially set to continue with the BBC’s FA Cup coverage and other flagship events—commitments now curtailed as a result of recent events.
Reflecting on his imminent departure during a podcast with pundits Alan Shearer and Micah Richards, Lineker remarked, “Of course I know that [it’s my last show]. I did my last Saturday night at the weekend, because the final day of the season is played on a Sunday… I won’t miss that part of it… but I will miss you boys!” His comments reflect the camaraderie built up over years of collaboration and the bittersweet nature of his farewell.
Looking beyond television, Lineker has begun to focus attention on new creative ventures. During a discussion on Stephen Hendry’s Cue Tips podcast, he outlined his ambition for his burgeoning media company, Goalhanger—responsible for a range of successful podcasts, including The Rest Is Football and The Rest Is Politics. “We’ve got a podcast, a ‘Podcast empire’ we like to call it,” he joked, suggesting a shift in focus away from traditional television in favour of digital projects. “I really don’t envisage me doing TV much. Maybe, you know, occasional appearances on something.”
As Lineker signs off from Match of the Day, British viewers will no doubt reflect on his distinctive contribution to sports broadcasting. Despite the controversy surrounding his exit, the legacy of his career—marked by knowledge, wit and a knack for bringing football to millions—remains significant. His next chapter in digital media will be closely watched, as fans and critics alike ponder what the future holds, both for Lineker himself and for the evolution of sports media.