"It’s been a pleasure and a huge privilege": Gary Lineker to host final MOTD show on Sunday after antisemitic rat post

Gary Lineker will present his last Match of the Day show on Sunday.

Gary Linker is leaving his presenting role on Match of the Day (MOTD) and will not feature in the BBC’s coverage of the 2026 World Cup or the 2025/26 FA Cup coverage.

The final day of the Premier League season on Sunday will be his last show on MOTD.

In a video posted on his Instagram, Gary said: “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.

“The relationship with the BBC has been long and wonderful but it’s the right time for the organisation and myself to go our separate ways.”

Last week, Gary ‘apologised unreservedly’ for reposting an antisemitic rat illustration about Zionism on Instagram, on which he commented: "Zionism explained in less than 2 mins."

Zionism is a movement to develop and protect a Jewish state in the Middle East, which is now Israel.

In a sit-down interview with BBC journalist Amol Rajan last month, reflecting on his life on and off the pitch, Gary said he believes the BBC wanted him to leave his MOTD role.

Tim Davie, BBC Director-General, said: “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.”

In the 1990 FIFA World Cup, Gary scored four goals to help England reach the semi-finals.

Gary has repeatedly spoken out about the Israel-Palestine war, striking a division as to whether he is controversial or brave.

In March 2023, Gary’s criticism of the government's policy on asylum seekers left him temporarily suspended from MOTD.

He tweeted on X: "This is just an immeasurably cruel policy directed at the most vulnerable people in language that is not dissimilar to that used by Germany in the 30s, and I'm out of order?"

This caused mayhem with some BBC viewers saying Gary should be impartial due to his high-profile role at the organisation, while fellow pundits Ian Wright and Allan Shearer boycotted MOTD in solidarity. 

The BBC subsequently changed its social media rules for employees - flagship presenters can share their opinions on issues and policies but must refrain from political campaigning.

Gary made 105 appearances for FC Barcelona between 1986 and 1989.

Gary has over 80 caps for England and remains the only English footballer to be the top goalscorer with three clubs: Leicester City, Everton and Tottenham Hotspur. He also played for FC Barcelona.

Israel and Palestine is currently a huge political topic with the UK government still paying for arms in Israel. 

I think it's important for people in positions of power and fame like Gary Linker - who have a large following - to stand up against the government and hold them to account.

Palestine is without aid and resources to help their people - it's time that the UK government did something. Putting pressure on the government and asking for change to happen is incredibly important.