Gary Lineker Steps Down from Match of the Day After 25 Years

Gary Lineker, a former England soccer captain and BBC presenter, will step down from the Match of the Day show after 25 years. He will continue covering football events for the BBC until 2026, while his public statements and salary have sparked public debate.

Gary Lineker, a former England soccer captain, is set to step down from his role as presenter of BBC's Match of the Day at the end of the current season after a remarkable 25-year tenure.

Despite leaving the highlights show, Lineker, 63, will remain at the BBC until 2026 to cover the World Cup, solidifying his role as the broadcaster's leading football analyst. His contribution to the programme, which consistently draws millions of viewers, has been acknowledged by Alex Kay-Jelski, the BBC's director of sport.

Though Lineker's 1.35 million pound salary has drawn criticism, he will continue to work on the MOTD podcast and host FA Cup coverage for the 2025-26 season. Known for sharing his political views, Lineker has faced challenges related to BBC's impartiality rules.

(With inputs from agencies.)