Gary Lineker has quit his role as Match of the Day host and will leave at the end of the current season.
Lineker has been at the helm of BBC’s Match of the Day (MOTD) coverage since 1999, during which he has presented seven UEFA Euros, six FIFA World Cups alongside FA Cup broadcasts over the last 25 years.
The ex England striker also hosted coverage of select Premier League matches during the Coronavirus-pandemic impacted seasons.
Lineker’s most memorable moment came in March 2023 when BBC suspended him for political comments, which prompted many of his BBC Sport colleagues to walk out in solidarity and led to a weekend of chaos for the broadcaster.
BBC consequently were forced into a U-turn just days later as a truce was struck with Lineker.
Lineker however has now decided to stand down from MOTD at the end of the current season, but has agreed a new contract extension to front the BBC’s 2025-26 FA Cup plus 2026 FIFA World Cup coverage.
He will also continue to host the popular MOTD: Top Ten programme, which covers various footballing topics.
Speaking upon confirmation of his MOTD exit, Lineker commented: “I’m delighted to continue my long association with BBC Sport and would like to thank all those who made this happen.”
Director of BBC Sport, Alex Kay-Jelski added: ““Gary is a world-class presenter, and we’re delighted that he’ll lead our coverage of the next World Cup and continue to lead our live coverage of the FA Cup.
“After 25 seasons Gary is stepping down from MOTD. We want to thank him for everything he has done for the show, which continues to attract millions of viewers each week.
“He’ll be hugely missed on the show but we’re so happy he is staying with the BBC to present live football.”
BBC will name Lineker’s replacement as MOTD host in due course, with Mark Chapman, Gabby Logan and Alex Scott thought to be frontrunners for the role.