Gary Lineker to return this weekend

Gary Lineker will return to the airwaves as BBC announce review on use of social media.

Gary Lineker will be back on air this weekend to front football coverage after being asked to step aside last week following his tweet on government policy surrounding asylum seekers. The BBC’s decision last Friday to ask the 62-year-old to step aside caused fellow colleagues at BBC Sport to pull out of programmes and disrupting football coverage across the corporation.

In a statement put out Monday, the BBC has announced a review, led by an independent expert, into the existing social media guidelines that freelance and general BBC staff are expected to adhere to.

BBC Director-General, Tim Davie:

“Accordingly, we are announcing a review led by an independent expert – reporting to the BBC – on its existing social media guidance, with a particular focus on how it applies to freelancers outside news and current affairs. The BBC and myself are aware that Gary is in favour of such a review. Shortly, the BBC will announce who will conduct that review. Whilst this work is undertaken, the BBC’s current social media guidance remains in place. Gary is a valued part of the BBC and I know how much the BBC means to Gary, and I look forward to him presenting our coverage this coming weekend.”

Tim Davie says that the impartiality is important to the BBC, the public and had a commitment to it in its Charter. The announcement of a review comes as many questioned whether those who work for the BBC should be restricted from posting their own thoughts on political and social issues. Davie accepts that guidance drawn up in 2020 had “grey areas” which led to “potential confusion.” It is not yet known who will conduct the review.

Gary Lineker, Match of the Day host:

“I am glad that we have found a way forward. I support this review and look forward to getting back on air.”