Gary Lineker apologises for ‘genuine mistake’ as BBC confirms early exit

His early departure, after 26 years at the BBC, came amid reports the corporation’s bosses considered his position “untenable”, according to BBC News

Match of the Day presenter Gary Lineker outside his home in London Picture: Ben Whitley/PA

Presenter Gary Lineker has issued an unreserved apology for a social media video he shared, which led to his early exit from the BBC, as UK's Downing Street branded the post “completely unacceptable”.

After this weekend’s Match Of The Day, Lineker, 64, will leave his presenting role at the BBC and will no longer front the corporation’s coverage of the 2026 World Cup or the FA Cup next season.