Gary Lineker announces his departure from ‘Match of the Day,’ ending a 25-year tenure.
- The announcement followed a period of speculation about Lineker’s future on the show.
- Lineker will continue his contract with BBC for 18 months, covering the next FIFA World Cup.
- BBC Sports confirmed the news on Twitter ahead of an official announcement.
- Lineker’s ‘retirement’ is unlikely to be long, with ventures in Goalhanger Podcasts continuing.
Gary Lineker has confirmed his decision to step down from the BBC’s iconic football highlights show, ‘Match of the Day,’ at the end of the current season. This marks the end of a 25-year era, during which Lineker became a staple for football enthusiasts every Saturday night. His departure is a significant moment for the show and its audience, many of whom have grown accustomed to his presence. The speculation surrounding Lineker’s future had intensified recently, with Lineker himself playfully mentioning his departure during a broadcast, adding an element of intrigue and anticipation.
Having succeeded Des Lynam in 1999, Lineker has been one of the most recognizable faces on the BBC for over two decades. Despite stepping down from ‘Match of the Day,’ Lineker has signed an 18-month contract with the BBC, ensuring his presence for the upcoming FIFA World Cup scheduled in the US, Canada, and Mexico. This contract extension reflects Lineker’s ongoing influence and the value the BBC places on his continued association with the network.
BBC News planned an official announcement following a report by The Sun, but BBC Sport pre-emptively confirmed the news on its social media platforms, stating: “Gary Lineker will step down as host of Match of the Day at the end of the season.” This unexpected confirmation highlights the anticipatory nature and the widespread interest in Lineker’s career decisions.
Lineker’s prominence within the BBC has not been without controversy. In recent years, his open expression of views on social media has strained his relationship with the broadcaster. A notable incident occurred in March 2023 when Lineker was temporarily removed from air for a tweet criticizing government policy. This action prompted a solidarity walkout from his colleagues, underscoring his influence and support within the media community.
Despite leaving ‘Match of the Day,’ Lineker’s career is far from over. His company, Goalhanger Podcasts, which he founded in 2019, continues to release highly popular series, including ‘The Rest is Politics.’ These successful ventures suggest that Lineker will remain a prominent figure in sports and entertainment media.
Gary Lineker’s departure from ‘Match of the Day’ signifies the end of an era but opens new opportunities in his podcasting endeavors.
