Overview

• Gary Lineker presented his final Match of the Day on May 25, bringing to a close his 26-year role as the BBC’s flagship football highlights host.
• His departure was brought forward after he shared a social media post about Zionism featuring a rat emoji, a symbol with antisemitic associations, and issued an unreserved apology.
• The last broadcast included an emotional tribute montage featuring messages from Alan Shearer, Micah Richards, Pep Guardiola, Virgil van Dijk and other football figures.
• Gabby Logan, Kelly Cates and Mark Chapman will share Match of the Day presenting duties for the 2025-26 Premier League season, and Lineker’s FA Cup and 2026 World Cup roles have been reassigned.
• The BBC retains Premier League highlights rights through 2028-29, while Lineker’s Goalhanger Podcasts is expected to continue producing sports content, potentially in partnership with DAZN.