Gary Lineker to Step Down from BBC Sport Role After Controversial Antisemitic Post

Image: Grok AI

By Jon Donnis

Gary Lineker will step down from his long-running role with BBC Sport following the final episode of Match of the Day for the 2024/25 season. His departure comes amid growing controversy and follows years of criticism over his conduct on social media and repeated breaches of the BBC's impartiality guidelines. The broadcaster has confirmed that Lineker will not be involved in its coverage of the 2026 World Cup or the 2025/26 FA Cup season.

This marks the end of an era for one of British television's most recognisable sports presenters. Yet it also brings to a close a prolonged period of tension between Lineker and BBC leadership, culminating in the fallout from an antisemitic Instagram post that many viewed as crossing a final red line.

Tim Davie, the BBC's Director-General, acknowledged Lineker's contribution while confirming the decision:

"Gary has acknowledged the mistake he made. Accordingly, we have agreed he will step back from further presenting after this season.

Gary has been a defining voice in football coverage for the BBC for over two decades. His passion and knowledge have shaped our sports journalism and earned him the respect of sports fans across the UK and beyond. We want to thank him for the contribution he has made."

The final decision follows years of growing unease over Lineker's public statements. Despite the BBC's insistence on impartiality, Lineker often voiced political and social opinions online, drawing criticism from across the political spectrum. While his defenders claimed he was simply expressing personal beliefs, critics argued he had repeatedly undermined the BBC's editorial neutrality, especially during politically sensitive periods. Several warnings were issued over the years, but enforcement was inconsistent.

His most recent misstep – a social media post widely condemned as antisemitic – sparked significant public and internal backlash. Despite deleting the post and issuing a formal apology, the damage was done. The gravity of the offence and the broader context of his conduct appear to have led BBC bosses to conclude that his position was no longer tenable.