Cliff Notes – Gary Lineker in high spirits as he arrives for last-ever Match of the Day
- Gary Lineker, 64, arrived at BBC studios for his final appearance on Match of the Day, smiling and dressed casually in blue jeans and a checkered shirt.
- His departure follows a controversial Instagram post regarding Zionism, which he later apologised for, stating it was a ‘genuine mistake’ and did not reflect his views.
Gary Lineker in high spirits as he arrives for last-ever Match of the Day
Gary Lineker is gearing up to front his last Match of the Day (Picture: MCPIX/BBC)
Gary Lineker appeared in good spirits as he was seen arriving at the BBC studios ahead of his final appearance on Match of the Day.
The sports pundit was photographed stepping out of a car carrying a bag over his shoulder, wearing fitted blue jeans and a checkered shirt.
Lineker, 64, had a smile on his face as he entered the studio via an underground entrance.
It comes after his exit from the BBC was confirmed earlier this week.
The former striker has hosted MOTD since 1999 and has topped the Beeb’s list of its highest-paid stars on several occasions since.
However, he attracted criticism when he shared an Instagram Story about Zionism.
The host looked in high spirits as he arrived at the BBC studios (Picture: MCPIX)
Lineker wore blue jeans and a checkered shirt (Picture: MCPIX)
He entered via a back door (Picture: MCPIX)
His since-deleted post featured a rat emoji, which has been historically used as an antisemitic trope.
The host later issued an unreserved apology for the ‘hurt and upset caused’ by the video, stating it was a ‘genuine mistake’.
A statement read: ‘On Instagram, I reposted material which I have since learned contained offensive references. I very much regret these references.
‘I would never knowingly share anything antisemitic. It goes against everything I believe in.
‘The post was removed as soon as I became aware of the issue.
‘Whilst I strongly believe in the importance of speaking out on humanitarian issues, including the tragedy unfolding in Gaza, I also know that how we do so matters.
The former footballer has been presenting MOTD since 1999 (Picture: Bradley Collyer/PA Wire)
‘I take full responsibility for this mistake. That image does not reflect my views.’
After admitting his ‘error’, Lineker added in a video that it was ‘best for all concerned’ that he step down from BBC presenting duties ‘altogether’.
‘It’s been a pleasure and a huge privilege working with the BBC for 30 years, especially hosting Match of the Day, a programme that is so close to my heart and an integral part of my life,’ Lineker shared.
A source later claimed to The Sun that Lineker was ‘absolutely devastated by the recent turn of events and is deeply regretful about how his post was interpreted.’
This was not the first time Lineker has been embroiled in a row with BBC bosses.
In March 2023, he was temporarily suspended over an impartiality row about comments he made criticising the then-Conservative government’s new asylum policy.
Sources say Lineker was ‘devastated’ by how things have ended (Picture: Ash Knotek/Shutterstock for AWEu)
He will no longer front BBC coverage of the 2026 World Cup, as it was previously announced (Picture: BBC)
Viewers will have to wait until 10:30pm to see exactly what treatment Lineker’s official sign-off is given.
However, it’s believed his departure will be marked with a tribute similar to the one given to Ian Wright when he left last year.
A video montage was played for Wright, which featured highlights from his career and tributes from his family, plus Lineker, Alan Shearer, and England player Bukayo Saka.
Leaving the BBC tonight means Lineker will no longer front the broadcaster’s coverage of the 2026 World Cup or coverage of the FA Cup next season, as had been previously announced.