Gary Lineker, the BBC's highest-paid on-air talent, has acknowledged the inevitability of slowing down his career as speculation mounts over his future with Match of the Day. Approaching his 64th birthday, Lineker, who has hosted the show since 1999, hinted at possibly leaving the BBC to focus on his successful podcast business, Goalhanger Podcasts, which features 'The Rest Is Football'. Despite ongoing talks regarding a new contract, the BBC has denied preparing any announcements about his departure. Lineker humorously addressed the rumors during a recent episode of Match of the Day, but he admitted in an interview with Esquire that he may need to step back as he ages. He reportedly earned approximately £1.35 million in the 2023/24 financial year, maintaining his status as the top earner at the BBC. As he considers his options, the future of his role remains uncertain, with his current contract set to expire at the end of the football season.