Gary Lineker will make his final appearance on BBC’s Match of the Day this Sunday, bringing a decades-long broadcasting era to a close following a controversy that led to his decision to step away from the corporation entirely.
The 64-year-old former England and Barcelona striker had already announced in November 2024 that he would be stepping back from Match of the Day, while still presenting BBC coverage of the FA Cup and the 2026 World Cup. However, a recent social media post and ensuing accusations of anti-Semitism have prompted Lineker to sever all remaining ties with the broadcaster.
The controversy erupted after Lineker shared a post from the group Palestine Lobby that included a rat emoji—an image that has historically been used as an anti-Semitic symbol. The post sparked widespread backlash, leading to Lineker issuing an unreserved apology and confirming his exit from all BBC commitments.
“Hi everyone, some personal news,” Lineker wrote. “Last week, I shared a post here on Instagram that contained an emoji that has awful connotations. Unfortunately, I did not see the emoji. If I had, I would never, ever have shared it.”
“I quickly deleted the post and made an apology. I want to say again I’m sorry unreservedly for the hurt and the upset caused. It was a genuine mistake and oversight, but I should have been more diligent. I know that.”
He added, “So I think it’s best for all concerned that I step down from BBC presenting duties altogether… The final day of the Premier League season on Sunday will be my last show.”
Despite the circumstances of his departure, Lineker’s legacy includes notable acts of generosity and advocacy. In 2020, he welcomed Pakistani refugee Rasheed Baluch into his home through the UK charity Refugees at Home. Baluch, a human rights activist forced to flee Balochistan, described Lineker as “friendly, open-minded, sympathetic, caring, and human-loving.”
“Although Gary is a star, he leads a simple life. He gave me an Oyster card with a £100 top-up for my transport to university,” Baluch said.
Lineker described the experience as “hugely positive” and said it gave him “a different perspective on life.”
When Lineker was previously suspended by the BBC in 2023 for criticising the UK government’s asylum policy, Baluch came to his defense, stating, “Gary has come forward to defend humanity. It should be a point of pride for the British public.”
Now, as he prepares to sign off for the final time on Match of the Day, Lineker’s departure marks the end of a chapter defined by sports excellence, public controversy, and a strong voice on humanitarian issues.
Don’t Miss These:
- Lorraine Kelly Fights to Save Her Show as ITV Slashes Budget
- Kate Middleton’s Brother Breaks Silence with Emotional Tribute
- Keir Starmer Accused of Putting Global Interests Ahead of Britain
- Ruth and Eamonn’s £3.6 Million Home at Centre of Divorce Drama
- Everyone Bought Meghan Markle’s Honey, but Now the Website Is Dead Silent
