BBC broadcaster and former football star Gary Lineker is expected to step down as the host of *Match of the Day*, the iconic BBC football highlights show, at the end of this Premier League season in May 2025. According to reports, the BBC is preparing to announce his departure officially on Tuesday.
This exit will mark the end of an era for the 63-year-old Lineker, who has hosted *Match of the Day* since 1999, making him one of the BBC’s longest-running and most recognizable sports presenters. His contract is reportedly set to conclude after he leads the BBC’s coverage of the 2026 World Cup, hosted by the US, Canada, and Mexico. The news was first reported by *The Sun*, and BBC sources have declined to comment at this stage.
In an interview with *Esquire* magazine published this month, Lineker hinted at the possibility of scaling back his career, stating he understood he’d “have to slow down at some point.” Despite his vast popularity, Lineker has also courted controversy over his outspoken presence on social media. Last year, he was temporarily suspended following a post on UK asylum policy, sparking public debate on BBC impartiality and social media policy for its employees.
Beyond his television career, Lineker had a distinguished career as a footballer, representing England as well as clubs such as Leicester City, Everton, Tottenham Hotspur, and Barcelona. His knowledge of the game and approachable style have made him a beloved figure for millions of football fans.
As one of the BBC’s highest-paid presenters, with an annual salary over £1.3 million, Lineker’s departure leaves a gap that will be challenging for the network to fill. He has also hosted coverage of international tournaments, including the World Cup and European Championships, and the BBC Sports Personality of the Year awards.
As Lineker prepares to bid farewell to *Match of the Day*, fans and colleagues alike will reflect on his quarter-century of contributions to British sports broadcasting.
