Gary Lineker to depart the BBC after this weekend’s MOTD

Gary Lineker has confirmed he’ll go away the BBC after this Sunday’s Match of the Day, describing it as “the accountable plan of action”.

The previous England striker has fronted the BBC’s soccer protection for over 25 years and, whereas he was going to step again from MOTD duties after the weekend, he was resulting from keep on to current subsequent season FA Cup protection and lead the company’s group on the 2026 World Cup.

However having been on the centre of controversy in recent times for airing political and social views on social media – which is at odds with the BBC’s guidelines on impartiality – his place got here below scrutiny once more final week after he shared a social media publish about Zionism that included an illustration of a rat, traditionally used as an anti-semitic insult.

I recognise the error and upset I brought about – Lineker

Lineker eliminated the publish and apologised however each he and the BBC have confirmed his departure will now be introduced ahead.

He stated: “Soccer has been on the coronary heart of my life for so long as I can bear in mind – each on the pitch and within the studio.

“I care deeply concerning the sport, and concerning the work I’ve carried out with the BBC over a few years.

“As I’ve stated, I might by no means consciously repost something antisemitic – it goes towards the whole lot I stand for.

“Nevertheless, I recognise the error and upset that I brought about, and reiterate how sorry I’m. Stepping again now feels just like the accountable plan of action.”

Davie hails Lineker’s contribution

Tim Davie, the BBC’s director basic, added: “Gary has acknowledged the error he made.

“Accordingly, we have now agreed he’ll step again from additional presenting after this season.

“Gary has been a defining voice in soccer protection for the BBC for over twenty years.

“His ardour and information have formed our sports activities journalism and earned him the respect of sports activities followers throughout the UK and past.

“We need to thank him for the contribution he has made.”