Sports broadcaster Gary Lineker to leave BBC after sharing Instagram story about Zionism
Gary Lineker, the beloved England soccer great-turned-media celebrity, is set to leave his role as a presenter for the BBC after facing criticism for reposting an Instagram story about Zionism that featured a picture of a rat. The 64-year-old Lineker, who is the British national broadcaster’s highest-paid presenter, making about 1.3 million pounds ($2.42 million CAD) a year, was initially scheduled to leave flagship soccer highlights show Match of the Day at the end of this season but remain with the BBC to front other soccer coverage, including next year’s men’s World Cup.
However, the BBC announced on Monday in a statement that Lineker will step down entirely from the corporation after the final Match of the Day episode next weekend in the wake of his decision to share a post from the group Palestine Lobby that included a picture of a rat, titled: “Zionism explained in two minutes.” Rats, historically linked to disease and dirt, have been used to represent Jews in antisemitic propaganda, including by the Nazis in 1930s Germany.
In response to the backlash, Lineker issued an apology, acknowledging the mistake he made and expressing regret for causing offense. He stated that he withdrew the post as soon as he became aware of the issue and emphasized that he would never knowingly share anything antisemitic. Despite his remorse, the BBC decided that Lineker should step back from further presenting duties after this season.
Lineker, in a separate video post on Instagram, admitted to making a “genuine mistake” and recognized that he should have been more diligent. He emphasized that he has always stood up for minorities and humanitarian issues, including combating antisemitism, which he abhors. The decision to step back from his presenting role was described by Lineker as a responsible course of action.
The strained relationship between Lineker and the BBC has been highlighted by his previous suspension in March 2023 for comments critical of the Conservative government’s asylum policy. His outspoken nature on social media has led to clashes with the corporation’s impartiality guidelines, ultimately leading to his departure.
Lineker, a revered figure in British soccer, has been a mainstay on Match of the Day since 1999, showcasing his wit, knowledge, and passion for the game. As one of England’s greatest players, Lineker’s transition to TV presenting has solidified his status as a national treasure. His departure from the BBC marks the end of an era in sports journalism, with his absence leaving a significant void in the broadcasting landscape.
Despite the controversy surrounding his exit, Lineker’s contribution to sports journalism and his impact on fans across the UK and beyond have been widely recognized. The Campaign Against Antisemitism welcomed Lineker’s departure, describing him as a symbol of the “rot at the heart of our national broadcaster.” The group praised the decision to hold Lineker accountable for his actions and promote a more inclusive and respectful media environment.
As Lineker prepares to bid farewell to the BBC, the network is set to usher in a new era of sports broadcasting. Match of the Day will be hosted by Kelly Cates, Mark Chapman, and Gabby Logan for the upcoming season, signaling a shift away from former soccer players in presenting roles. While Lineker’s departure marks the end of an era, his legacy as a soccer legend and media personality will continue to resonate with fans for years to come.
