His last program will be this Sunday.
The former footballer and later sports presenter has fronted football coverage for the broadcaster since the 1990s, including Match of the Day, and has been one of the BBC’s highest-paid profiles.
Lineker has been in the spotlight in recent days after he shared a video from an account called Palestine Lobby. The video, titled “Zionism Explained in Two Minutes,” featured a drawn rat emoji.
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Historically loaded symbolism
Throughout history, Jews have been compared to rats in anti-Semitic propaganda, including in Nazi Germany.
Lineker, who had already announced that he is leaving Match of the Day, has now confirmed that he is leaving the BBC earlier than planned – and made a new apology for the shared post.
Lineker’s statement
In the new video, he said,
“Last week, I shared a post on Instagram that featured an emoji with horrible connotations. Unfortunately, I didn’t notice the emoji. If I had, I would never, ever have shared it.”
“The moment I became aware of it, I quickly deleted the post and apologized. I would like to say again that I am unconditionally sorry for the pain and commotion it has caused. It was a genuine mistake and translation, but I should have paid more attention. I know that.”
“All my life I have stood up for minorities and humanitarian causes against all forms of racism, including of course anti-Semitism, which I abhor. There’s no place for that, and it never should.”
“That’s why I think it’s best for all parties that I completely retire from my presenter duties for the BBC, and not do the FA Cup or the World Cup next season. The Premier League’s final round this Sunday will be my last programme.”
*”It has been a privilege and a great pleasure to work for the BBC for 30 years, especially with *Match of the Day, a programme that is so close to my heart and has been an integral part of my life.”
“I want to thank all the amazing, talented and wonderful people both in front of and behind the camera that I’ve worked with for three decades – you are the best.”
“The relationship with the BBC has been long and wonderful, but it is the right time for both the organisation and myself to go our separate ways. Thank you also to all of you for the incredible support and love over so many years – it means everything to me. See you on Sunday.”
BBC’s reaction
BBC Director-General Tim Davie stated:
“Gary has acknowledged the mistake he made. Accordingly, we have agreed that he will retire from further program management after this season.”
“Gary has been a defining voice in BBC football coverage for over two decades. His passion and knowledge have shaped our sports journalism and earned him respect among football fans across the UK and beyond. We want to thank him for the contribution he has made.”
Alex Kay-Jelski, the BBC’s new sporting director, also sent an email to staff acknowledging that “the last week has been difficult and emotional”, and asking to “end the season strongly with Gary’s latest programme”.
Lineker had previously announced that he would be leaving Match of the Day after the next season, but the decision to leave the BBC altogether came earlier than expected. His last broadcast will be Sunday’s season finale in the Premier League.
