Gary Lineker Quits BBC After Antisemitism Social Media Row

Gary Lineker, the longtime Match of the Day host, is set to leave the BBC earlier than planned following a controversy over his reposting of a social media video that included an antisemitic rat emoji. Despite his unprecedented public apology and removal of the post, the backlash from BBC staff and the wider public has rendered his position at the corporation untenable, leading to a mutual agreement for his departure after 26 years. Lineker will host his final Match of the Day this Sunday and the FA Cup final this weekend, but he will not present the BBC's coverage of the 2026 World Cup as originally intended. The controversy has exposed tensions within the BBC, with some staff demanding his dismissal for what they view as repeated offensiveness towards Jewish people, while Lineker remains deeply regretful and plans to focus on his podcasting career. His exit marks the end of a high-profile broadcasting tenure marked by outspoken views and clashes with BBC management. The organization is now left managing the fallout as it prepares to replace him with multiple presenters.