In brief
After an iconic 26-year career as the face of “Match of the Day,” Gary Lineker will exit the show at the close of the current Premier League season, though he will continue to appear on BBC for major tournaments.
Gary Lineker, the iconic English sports presenter and former soccer star, will depart the BBC's “Match of the Day” after the current Premier League season, marking the conclusion of an esteemed 26-year run. BBC Sport director Alex Kay-Jelski confirmed the news in a staff email, describing the program as “a national gem” and expressing pride in its long heritage. Having hosted the show since 1999, Lineker has been a beloved figure, guiding millions of viewers through weekly highlights of Premier League matches.Though leaving his hosting role, Lineker's commitments will include covering the 2026 World Cup and the F.A. Cup in the 2025-2026 season, signaling that his association with the BBC is far from over. “Match of the Day” has been a staple of British broadcasting since 1964, but Lineker's exit signifies a shift for both the show and the network's sports programming.An influential figure in soccer, Lineker scored his place in history as a celebrated striker for England, notably as the leading scorer for clubs like Leicester City, Tottenham Hotspur, and Everton. Transitioning to broadcasting after retiring from professional play in 1994, he has since expanded his media presence to include podcasts and collaborations with networks like TNT and NBC.In recent times, Lineker has also been recognized for his outspoken views on political and social issues, occasionally leading to tensions with the BBC, including a temporary suspension in 2023 following controversial remarks on immigration policies. Despite this, Kay-Jelski emphasized that Lineker’s decision to step away from “Match of the Day” was unrelated to past disputes, assuring continued collaboration with the sportscaster.Expressing gratitude for his time at the BBC, Lineker stated his delight in maintaining a long-term relationship with the network as he embarks on new opportunities. Ali Watkins reports from London, covering significant global stories and developments.
