Gary Lineker to Depart from BBC’s “Match of the Day”

Gary Lineker, the renowned English sports personality and former soccer star, has announced his departure from the BBC’s iconic soccer program “Match of the Day” following the conclusion of this Premier League season. The announcement was made on Tuesday, with Alex Kay-Jelski, the director of BBC Sport, informing staff in an email that was later shared with The New York Times.

“Gary will also be stepping away from Match of the Day after an incredible 25 years at the end of the current season,” Kay-Jelski stated in the email. “It’s a national gem, watched by millions of people every week. And one we are very proud of.” Mr. Lineker has been the face of the weekly highlights show since 1999, establishing a deep connection with soccer fans across the nation. Although he is leaving the program, he will continue to work with the BBC, covering the upcoming 2026 World Cup and the F.A. Cup during the 2025-2026 season, as confirmed by Kay-Jelski.

Mr. Lineker’s exit from “Match of the Day” marks the conclusion of an era not only for the broadcaster but also for the beloved host. The show, which has been a staple on BBC since 1964, showcases highlights from the day’s Premier League matches and attracts millions of viewers weekly.

Beyond his role as the host of “Match of the Day,” Mr. Lineker has explored various broadcasting opportunities, including partnerships with U.S.-based networks like TNT and NBC. In recent years, he has ventured into the podcasting realm, co-founding Goalhanger Productions, which is responsible for several successful shows, including the popular The Rest Is Politics.

Mr. Lineker has maintained a prominent presence in international soccer for decades, first gaining fame in the 1980s as a striker and captain of the England national team. Notably, he remains the only English player to be the top scorer for three different clubs: Leicester City, Tottenham Hotspur, and Everton. After retiring from professional soccer in 1994, following stints in Barcelona and Japan, he swiftly transitioned into broadcasting.

Known for his candid nature, Mr. Lineker has often delved into political and social issues, which has occasionally put him at odds with the BBC. In 2023, he faced temporary suspension after likening the British government’s immigration rhetoric to that of 1930s Germany in a social media post. This incident sparked significant controversy within the BBC, but he was reinstated shortly thereafter.

In addressing Mr. Lineker’s forthcoming departure, Kay-Jelski emphasized that the decision was unrelated to previous controversies, asserting that the BBC is eager to continue collaborating with him in different capacities. “We still want to work with Gary, just in a different way,” Kay-Jelski remarked in the email.

In a statement shared by Kay-Jelski, Mr. Lineker expressed his gratitude towards the network, saying, “I’m delighted to continue my long association with BBC Sport.”