Gary Lineker leaves Match of the Day after 26 years
Gary Lineker has stepped down from Match of the Day after 26 years in the host’s chair. His final show aired on Sunday, May 25, marking the end of a long run with the BBC. He began the broadcast with the line, 'It wasn’t meant to end this way', hinting at the events behind his early exit.
Lineker had planned to stay on to cover major BBC events like the FA Cup and the World Cup. But earlier this month, he faced backlash after sharing a post that included an image linked to antisemitism. He later apologised, saying he had not noticed the offensive symbol and would never knowingly share anything harmful. He chose to leave the BBC completely, calling it 'the responsible course of action'.
A quiet farewell on air
Lineker’s final show ended with tributes from his co-hosts, Alan Shearer and Micah Richards. They gave him a golden boot and a memorial cap. Lineker thanked the viewers directly, saying, 'Thank you for watching, thank you for all your love and support over the years. It’s been so special, and I'm sorry that your team was always on last. Time to say goodbye'.
He took over Match of the Day in 1999, following Des Lynam. Over time, Lineker became one of the most recognisable faces in British sport and the BBC’s highest-paid presenter. He often spoke out on social issues, not just football. In 2023, he was briefly suspended for a tweet criticising the UK’s asylum policy. Many BBC Sport staff walked out in support, and he was later reinstated. The BBC then brought in new rules about what presenters could post online.
In May 2025, Lineker again faced criticism for reposting an image tied to antisemitic views. Though he said it was a mistake, the BBC and Lineker agreed it was best he stepped away.
A new era begins
The final episode included a video montage of Lineker’s years on the show. It featured key moments like the time he hosted in his Leicester City shorts after the club’s 2016 Premier League win. There were messages from football legends like Ian Wright, Alan Hansen, and Pep Guardiola, who said, 'You will be missed, you don’t believe it, but you will'.
Liverpool’s Arne Slot, fresh from lifting the league trophy, also paid tribute. He said he grew up watching Lineker and respected his work. The crowd gave a warm round of applause, and social media buzzed with heartfelt posts, clips, and memories shared by fans and pundits.
The BBC has confirmed that Gabby Logan, Mark Chapman, and Kelly Cates will share hosting duties from the 2025–26 season. Lineker wished them well, saying, 'The programme is in the best of hands'.
