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End of an Era
Gary Lineker, celebrated former captain of the England soccer team, has decided to leave his role as presenter of the BBC’s “Match of the Day” at the conclusion of the current season, capping off a remarkable 25-year run, the broadcaster confirmed on Tuesday. At 63 years old, Lineker will shift his focus but remain with the BBC until 2026, including coverage of the upcoming World Cup, further extending his influential presence in football broadcasting.
Continuation of a Storied Career
The BBC has shared that Lineker will not only host its World Cup coverage but will also lead the 2025-26 FA Cup broadcasts. Despite his departure from “Match of the Day,” Lineker will keep contributing to the “MOTD Top Ten” podcast and the newly BBC-hosted “The Rest is Football” podcast, which he co-hosts with Alan Shearer and Micah Richards. This podcast, part of Lineker’s Goalhanger production company, discusses recent football developments and anecdotes from their extensive playing careers.
Financial and Political Controversies
Lineker’s role as the BBC’s top earner, with a salary of £1.35 million, has been a point of contention among some viewers and media outlets. His public political statements, particularly those opposing Brexit and criticizing government immigration policies, have sparked debates about the need for BBC impartiality. This resulted in his temporary suspension in 2023 following his comments on social media.
Legacy and Future Prospects
Alex Kay-Jelski, BBC’s director of sport, acknowledged Lineker’s significant contributions, stating, “After 25 seasons, Gary is stepping down from MOTD. We want to thank him for everything he has done for the show, which continues to attract millions of viewers each week. He’ll be hugely missed on the show but we’re so happy he is staying with the BBC to present live football.”
Former BBC director general Greg Dyke praised Lineker as “the outstanding sports presenter of his time” but noted that change is inevitable. As the BBC navigates financial challenges, including job cuts aimed at saving £700 million annually, Lineker’s departure is seen as both a significant change and a potential cost-saving measure.
Reflecting on a Prolific Career
Prior to his broadcasting career, Lineker was a prolific striker for clubs like Leicester City, Everton, Tottenham Hotspur, and Barcelona, and he remains one of England’s top football icons. His transition from sports to media was seamless, marked by his depth of knowledge and engaging presence on screen.
As Gary Lineker prepares to leave “Match of the Day,” his impact on sports broadcasting and his role in shaping football’s televised landscape will continue to be felt. The search for his successor is likely to be thorough, with the aim of finding someone capable of stepping into the shoes of such a revered figure in sports journalism.
