The former footballer with a love of commenting on politics on social media is leaving MotD but not BBC Sport…
Gary Lineker:
“I’m delighted to continue my long association with BBC Sport and would like to thank all those who made this happen.”
The BBC and Gary Lineker have reached an agreement on a contract extension up to the 2026 World Cup. Gary will spearhead the tournament’s coverage as the England men’s team seeks to secure their first major trophy since 1966, while the other Home Nations strive for qualification and Lionel Messi looks to defend the title he secured with Argentina. Gary will also host BBC Sport’s coverage of the FA Cup in the 2025/26 season, 35 years on from lifting the trophy as a player.
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As widely reported over the weekend, and one tabloid as early as last month, after a quarter of a century, Gary is stepping down from hosting Match of The Day at the end of this season. He will continue with the MOTD Top Ten podcast and the Beeb will also host the popular The Rest is Football podcast on BBC Sounds.
Alex Kay-Jelski, Director of BBC Sport:
“After 25 seasons Gary is stepping down from MOTD. We want to thank him for everything he has done for the show, which continues to attract millions of viewers each week. He’ll be hugely missed on the show but we’re so happy he is staying with the BBC to present live football.”
Match of the Day remains part of the staple diet of football fans who still get a huge buzz from hearing that iconic theme tune (1970-) on a Saturday night. The programme began in 1964 and has seen several hosts over the years including Kenneth Wolstenholme, Jimmy Hill, Bob Wilson and Des Lynam. The most popular rating parts of the programme unsurprisingly are the football highlights footage proving the show will survive no matter who introduces it.
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