Lineker to leave BBC on Sunday after antisemitic trope apology

Gary Lineker will leave the BBC this weekend without a payoff, days after he apologised for amplifying online material with antisemitic connotations.

- Michael Savage

The presenter, the highest-paid on-air star at the BBC, had been scheduled to present the 2026 World Cup and next season's FA Cup for the corporation. However, insiders said his position had become untenable amid continuing anger over the social media post. He will now in effect end his 30-year relationship with the BBC after presenting his last Match of the Day this weekend. It is understood his departure does not include a financial settlement.

The decision to allow him to present the final Match of the Day of the season has also led to criticism, with some industry figures accusing the BBC of allowing him to leave on his own terms, despite admitting a serious error of judgment.

Reports of Lineker's early departure emerged on Sunday night, a day after he presented the BBC's FA Cup final coverage. It was confirmed yesterday by Tim Davie, the BBC's director general. "Gary has acknowledged the mistake he made," he said. "Accordingly, we have agreed he will step back from further presenting after this season.