It looks like Gary Lineker’s long relationship with the BBC is wrapping up sooner—and more turbulently—than expected.
While he was already planning to leave his role as host of Match of the Day at the end of this football season, fresh controversy has now pushed things into fast-forward.
He’s expected to officially step down from the broadcaster tomorrow, and that includes stepping away from upcoming duties like the 2026 World Cup coverage and the 2025-26 FA Cup—a major shake-up for one of British TV’s most familiar sports faces.
Instagram Post Sparks Uproar and Allegations of Antisemitism
The sudden change comes after Lineker shared a pro-Palestinian video on his Instagram story that included imagery widely seen as antisemitic—specifically a clip that used rat-related symbolism, something that evokes dark and offensive propaganda from Nazi-era Germany.
The backlash from parts of the Jewish community was swift and intense.
Although Lineker quickly deleted the post and said he didn’t realize its implications, the damage was done.
“I would never knowingly share anything antisemitic,” the 64-year-old insisted.
He followed up with a full apology, calling it a mistake and saying, “That image does not reflect my views.”
BBC Legend Under Fire Again for Political Outspokenness
This isn’t the first time Lineker’s public commentary has landed him in hot water. Back in 2023, he came under fire for comparing the UK government’s immigration rhetoric to 1930s Nazi Germany—a remark that briefly got him suspended from the BBC.
That suspension only ended after several colleagues walked out in solidarity.
Despite these previous storms, he remained a core part of the BBC’s sports programming—until now.
Lineker Defends Humanitarian Advocacy, But Regrets The Post
Speaking more recently, Lineker reiterated his commitment to advocating for humanitarian causes, particularly the crisis in Gaza.
“What’s happening there is beyond depraved,” he said in an interview
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