After 25 years at the helm, the BBC has confirmed that Gary Lineker is stepping down as host of Match of the Day.
The BBC has also agreed a contract extension with Lineker through to the 2026 World Cup. He will lead the coverage of the tournament. He will also host BBC Sport’s coverage of the FA Cup in the 2025/26 season, 35 years on from lifting the trophy as a player. Lineker will also continue with the MOTD Top Ten podcast and will also host The Rest is Football podcast on BBC Sounds.
Gary Lineker says: “I’m delighted to continue my long association with BBC Sport and would like to thank all those who made this happen.”
Alex Kay-Jelski, Director of BBC Sport, says: “Gary is a world-class presenter, and we’re delighted that he’ll lead our coverage of the next World Cup and continue to lead our live coverage of the FA Cup.
“After 25 seasons Gary is stepping down from MOTD. We want to thank him for everything he has done for the show, which continues to attract millions of viewers each week. He’ll be hugely missed on the show but we’re so happy he is staying with the BBC to present live football.”
Jon Creamer
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