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4mo ago

Gary Lineker Confirms BBC Match of the Day Exit After 26 Years

The BBC’s highest-paid presenter will step down following the 2026 World Cup, citing the broadcaster’s decision not to renew his contract.

Lineker, with dog Filbert, contemplates his future after Match of the Day at his home in southwest London. One thing’s for sure: he won’t be doing Big Brother
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Overview

  • Gary Lineker, 64, will leave Match of the Day after hosting BBC's 2026 World Cup coverage, concluding a 26-year tenure on the program.
  • Lineker revealed the BBC showed little interest in offering him another three-year contract, prompting his departure.
  • He will continue presenting BBC Sport’s FA Cup coverage and hosting his podcasts, including MOTD Top Ten and The Rest Is Football, until his exit.
  • Lineker has declined multiple high-profile offers, including a £100 million bid to join a celebrity edition of Big Brother and opportunities to host cooking shows.
  • His departure follows a 2023 suspension over social media comments on UK asylum policy, which strained his relationship with the BBC.