British sports analyst Gary Lineker will leave the BBC after Match of the Day this weekend, it has been revealed.
Lineker, 64, will leave the corporation earlier than expected and will not be involved in the BBC's coverage of the 2026 World Cup or next season's FA Cup, as previously announced.
Last week, he “unreservedly” apologized for posting a since-deleted Instagram story about Zionism that featured a rat, saying: “I take full responsibility for this mistake. This image does not represent my beliefs.”
In his statement, Lineker said: “Football has always been at the centre of my existence, for as long as I can remember – both on the pitch and in the studio.
“I genuinely care about the game and the work I have done with the BBC over many years. As I have said, I would never knowingly share anything anti-Semitic – it goes against everything I stand for.
“Nevertheless, I acknowledge my mistake and the pain I have caused, and I repeat how sorry I am. At this point, retreat seems the right decision.”
Tim Davie, the BBC's director general, said: “Gary has admitted he made a mistake. As a result, we have agreed that he will end his involvement with the show after this season.”
“Gary has played a key role in the BBC's football coverage for over two decades.
Sourse: breakingnews.ie
