“Gary Lineker to Step Down as Match of the Day Presenter at Season’s End – But New Deal Keeps Him at BBC Until 2026 World Cup with Surprising Twist!”
Gary Lineker has announced that he will step down as the host of BBC’s Match of the Day at the end of the current season, marking the end of an era for the iconic football program. However, in a surprising twist, the football legend has struck a new deal with the BBC that will see him remain with the broadcaster in a different capacity, with the agreement running through to the conclusion of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The new deal ensures that Lineker will continue to contribute to BBC sports coverage, even as he prepares to move on from his role as the flagship show’s presenter. Fans and pundits alike will be eagerly watching to see what the next chapter holds for Lineker’s long-standing career at the BBC.
“Gary Lineker to Step Down as Face of Match of the Day at Season’s End, but Will Stay with BBC Until 2026 World Cup”
Leicester City legend Gary Lineker is set to conclude his long-running role as the face of Match of the Day at the end of this season, but he will remain with the BBC until the conclusion of the 2026 World Cup. Lineker, who has been the show’s longest-serving presenter since taking the helm in 1999, will step away from the iconic role after more than two decades. This news comes after months of speculation, fueled by a leaked internal BBC email in early 2024, which hinted at his departure. While the BBC initially denied the leak, stating that negotiations for his contract renewal were still ongoing, it has now been confirmed that Lineker’s time as presenter will come to a close at the season’s end, though his presence at the BBC will continue in a new capacity.
“Gary Lineker to Depart Match of the Day at Season’s End, but Stays with BBC for FA Cup and 2026 World Cup Coverage”
In early October, Gary Lineker jokingly referred to his hosting duties on Match of the Day as his “final show… before the international break.” Now, a definitive timeline has emerged for his exit. The former England and Leicester City forward will step down as the show’s host when his contract expires at the end of the season. However, Lineker has agreed to a new deal with the BBC, ensuring his continued involvement in coverage of major events like the FA Cup and the 2026 World Cup, though at a reduced salary. The 2026 World Cup will be historic, expanding to 48 teams, and Lineker will remain a prominent figure for the BBC’s coverage of this and other major tournaments, including the upcoming 2024 European Championships, continuing his legacy as a key voice in football broadcasting.
“Gary Lineker’s Future in Question as He Reflects on ‘Slowing Down’ – BBC’s Top Earner Set for New Role After Match of the Day”
Gary Lineker, one of the BBC’s highest-paid stars with his seven-figure salary, has sparked fresh speculation about his future following an interview with Esquire. Lineker admitted, “I could [leave]. Whether that will be the case I don’t know. At some point, I have to slow down somewhere… I’m getting old.” The 64-year-old football legend, who will turn 65 by the time his extended contract expires, has been weighing his options beyond his illustrious television career.
In addition to his role on Match of the Day, Lineker is involved in various other ventures, including podcasting and co-founding Goalhanger Productions. He also hosts The Rest is Football podcast, which has become a popular platform for his insights. Recently, he experienced a change in his BBC role, with the broadcaster announcing that he would not be part of their new Champions League highlights show. The job is now being covered by Gabby Logan, Mark Chapman, and Jason Mohammad for midweek fixtures. Despite the shift in his responsibilities, Lineker’s future at the BBC remains secure, with a new agreement ensuring his continued involvement in major events like the FA Cup and 2026 World Cup coverage.
“Gary Lineker Reflects on 25 Years of Match of the Day as His Future at BBC Remains Uncertain”
Earlier this year, as he spoke on BBC Breakfast about Match of the Day’s 60th anniversary, Gary Lineker seemed at peace with his long-standing role, remarking, “It depends how long they want me, I suppose.” Lineker, who has presented the iconic football show for over 25 years, added, “I love doing it at the moment; I’ve still got another year left, at least. So we’ll have to wait and see what happens.”
He acknowledged the changing landscape of both football and television, noting that shifts in the Premier League’s broadcast rights would play a role in the future of the sport and its coverage. Despite these uncertainties, Lineker reflected on his tenure with a sense of pride, saying, “It’s been an absolute privilege to have presented it for 25 years now. I must be getting old!” With his current contract set to expire at the end of the season, Lineker’s future remains a topic of speculation, though he will continue to be involved with major BBC events in the years to come.