Gary Lineker, one of the most recognizable faces in British sports broadcasting and a legendary former England football captain, has announced he will leave the BBC following a social media controversy that sparked accusations of antisemitism. The decision brings an end to his 25-year tenure as the host of the iconic Match of the Day program.
Lineker, 64, became a household name during his footballing days in the 1980s and early 1990s, known not only for his goal-scoring prowess—netting 48 goals for England—but also for his sportsmanship, famously never receiving a yellow card in his entire 16-year professional career. After retiring from football, he transitioned seamlessly into television, becoming the face of football coverage at the BBC and one of the highest-paid figures at the publicly funded broadcaster.
The controversy that prompted his departure centered around a social media post Lineker shared on Instagram. The post, which criticized Zionism, included an image of a rat—an animal often historically used as an antisemitic trope. The post drew swift backlash, particularly from Jewish advocacy groups, who argued it echoed harmful stereotypes. Lineker later deleted the post and issued a public apology, calling it a “genuine mistake” and stating that he had not intended to cause harm.
“I’ve stood against all forms of racism throughout my life, including antisemitism, which I absolutely abhor,” Lineker said in a video posted to social media announcing his resignation. “It was a genuine mistake and oversight, but I should have been more diligent.”
Lineker confirmed he will step down after presenting the final Premier League fixtures of the 2024–2025 season on May 25. While he had been expected to leave Match of the Day later this year, he was also set to continue hosting major events like the 2026 World Cup and the FA Cup. However, those plans have now been scrapped.
BBC Director General Tim Davie confirmed the decision, saying, “Gary has acknowledged the mistake he made. Accordingly, we have agreed he will step back from further presenting after this season.”
The apology and resignation were welcomed by the Board of Deputies of British Jews, the UK’s largest Jewish advocacy group, which had been among those calling for stronger action. In a statement, the group said, “It is right that the BBC and Gary Lineker have decided that the presenter will stand down from his work.”
Lineker’s departure marks the end of an era at the BBC. His voice and presence have become synonymous with Saturday night football coverage for millions of viewers. But in recent years, Lineker’s social media activity has repeatedly put him at odds with the BBC’s commitment to impartiality. As the broadcaster’s highest-paid star—earning £1.35 million annually—he had faced growing scrutiny over his political commentary.
In 2023, he was temporarily suspended from Match of the Day after publicly criticizing the UK government’s immigration policy under the Conservative leadership. That move triggered a major backlash, with fellow presenters and pundits walking off in solidarity, forcing the BBC to air the program without commentary. He was eventually reinstated after a review and intense public pressure.
Lineker has also been outspoken on a range of political and humanitarian issues, including Brexit, refugee rights, and racism in football. While many fans praised his willingness to speak out, critics—particularly from conservative media and political circles—frequently accused him of using his public platform inappropriately.
As Lineker bows out, his departure underscores the ongoing tension between public figures’ right to express personal views and the responsibilities that come with representing publicly funded institutions. For now, the BBC must prepare for life after Lineker, while one of Britain’s most prominent sports broadcasters reflects on a dramatic and emotional end to a storied chapter.