Gary Lineker to quit Match of the Day at end of this season as BBC deal struck

Gary Lineker will leave his post as Match of the Day host at the end of the season - but is set to remain with the BBC until after the 2026 World Cup.

Former Tottenham striker Lineker, who has led the squad since 1999, becoming its longest-serving captain, has been subject to speculation about his successor. Despite a leaked internal BBC email earlier in 2024 hinting at an imminent announcement regarding his departure, the later clarified that talks were still in play.

In early October, Lineker light-heartedly mentioned overseeing his "final show... before the international break," but now it seems a definitive timeline for his exit has emerged. However, now a report from the BBC has confirmed that Lineker is to step down as host of the broadcaster's flagship football programme at the end of this season.

READ MORE:

READ MORE:

The report claims that it is expected to be announced officially on Tuesday by the BBC. With the 2026 World Cup expanding to 48 teams, will be there to guide fans through the historic event, adding to his extensive portfolio of major tournament coverage with the BBC, including the 2024 European Championships.

Lineker, a top earner on the BBC’s talent list and pulling in a seven-figure salary, had recently sparked speculation about his broadcasting future. In an Esquire interview, he said: "I could [leave]. Whether that will be the case, I don't know. At some point, I have to slow down somewhere... I'm getting old."

The television veteran has plenty to keep him busy aside from TV; he co-founded Goalhanger Productions and often features on The Rest is Football podcast.

Lineker, approaching 65 when his current contract expires, was also recently omitted from the new BBC Champions League highlights show, with presenting roles rotating between Gabby Logan, Mark Chapman, and Jason Mohammad.

During a celebration of Match of the Day's 60th anniversary on BBC Breakfast, Lineker seemed at ease discussing his tenure: "It depends how long they want me, I suppose," he commented. "I love doing it at the moment; I've still got another year left, at least. So we'll have to wait and see what happens."

He then reflected on broader changes in football broadcasting rights, adding: "Obviously it's another change in football and television and the rights of the Premier League and stuff like that. All of these things will play a part. But I just feel it's been an absolute privilege to have presented it for 25 years now. I must be getting old!"