Gary Lineker announced his early departure from the BBC on Monday amid an antisemitism storm and the former England striker is already being tipped to join ITV for next summer’s World Cup
Gary Lineker is being tipped to make a shock move to work for ITV at the 2026 World Cup. Lineker, 64, has left the BBC early in the wake of an antisemitism row and confirmed the bombshell news on Monday.
The former England striker received backlash after sharing a pro-Palestine video which featured an ‘antisemitic’ rat emoji. Lineker issued an apology after deleting the post but the fallout has brought his long BBC career to an end.
Having presented Match of the Day since 1999, Lineker will end his 26-year stint in the hot seat on Sunday, showing highlights from the final day of the Premier League season. That was already planned after he signed a new deal with the BBC in November, one which would see him continue to present FA Cup matches for the BBC next season and lead their coverage at the 2026 World Cup.
But Lineker will now leave his role early, a whole 14 months before the World Cup final next July. The ex-Barcelona, Tottenham and Everton star could still be at the tournament, though, and work for another broadcaster in the United States, Canada and Mexico.
Bookmakers William Hill have given odds of 3/1 for Lineker to be part of ITV’s team in North America. Lineker is a seasoned presenter but could become a pundit. William Hill also have 4/1 odds for him to join Sky Sports, who he’s previously held talks with.
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LIVE UPDATES: Latest on Gary Lineker and his BBC exit
His next move will be intensely scrutinised after the BBC confirmed his exit at 12pm on Monday. Lineker then issued a statement saying: “Football has been at the heart of my life for as long as I can remember – both on the pitch and in the studio.
“I care deeply about the game, and about the work I’ve done with the BBC over many years. As I’ve said, I would never consciously repost anything antisemitic – it goes against everything I stand for.
“However, I recognise the error and upset that I caused, and reiterate how sorry I am. Stepping back now feels like the responsible course of action.”
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Lineker also posted a video on Instagram to explain the situation and ‘apologise unreservedly’. “I’ve stood up for minorities and humanitarian issues and against all forms of racism all of my life, including, of course, antisemitism, which I absolutely abhor,” he added.
“There’s no place for it and never should be.”
The director general of the BBC, Tim Davie, said: “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.”
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