Veteran broadcaster and former England footballer Gary Lineker is set to step down from the BBC following backlash over a controversial social media post. Lineker shared an Instagram story from the Palestine Lobby that depicted a rat—a symbol historically associated with antisemitic imagery—to criticize Zionism. Although he apologized and promptly removed the post, stating he was unaware of its offensive nature, the BBC confirmed that he will leave after the final episode of “Match of the Day” this season.
A Storied Career Comes to an End
Lineker has been a prominent figure in BBC sports journalism since 1999, bringing insightful commentary and analysis to football fans across the UK. His departure marks the end of an era for the broadcaster. Known for his articulate presentation and deep understanding of the game, Lineker’s contributions have been widely acknowledged.
Controversy and Impartiality
This incident isn’t the first time Lineker’s social media activity has stirred debate. In 2023, he faced a brief suspension from the BBC due to political commentary that was deemed a breach of the corporation’s impartiality guidelines. The recent post reignited discussions about the responsibilities of public figures on social media platforms.
Reactions and Future Plans
The Campaign Against Antisemitism welcomed Lineker’s departure, citing repeated breaches of impartiality. The BBC has announced that Kelly Cates, Mark Chapman, and Gabby Logan will take over hosting duties for “Match of the Day” starting with the 2025-26 season, signaling a new chapter for the program.
