Gary Lineker's popular podcast "The Rest is Football" will no longer be available on BBC Sounds following his early departure from the corporation.
The decision comes in the wake of an antisemitism row that has brought an abrupt end to the presenter's long-standing relationship with the BBC.
The podcast, which is produced by Lineker's own company Goalhanger Productions, will have its final episode on the BBC's audio streaming service this week.
The move follows the corporation's announcement that the 64-year-old will be leaving his presenting duties earlier than previously planned.
Gary Lineker's podcast has been dropped by BBC Sounds
Reuters
The controversy erupted after Lineker shared a social media post about Zionism which contained an image of a rat, widely recognised as a historically anti-Semitic insult.
The former England striker has since issued an unreserved apology for the incident, stating on Monday that he "would never consciously repost anything anti-Semitic" and that he did not see the offensive image when sharing the post.
The row has accelerated Lineker's departure from the BBC, with the corporation taking swift action to address the situation that has caused significant concern among viewers and the wider public.
"The Rest is Football," which features Match of the Day pundits Alan Shearer and Micah Richards alongside Lineker, will continue to be available on other audio platforms after its BBC Sounds departure.
The podcast is part of Goalhanger's "The Rest Is..." franchise, which has proven popular with sports fans across the country.
Whilst Lineker's football podcast will no longer have a home on the BBC, it's worth noting that "The Rest Is History," another production from the same stable, will continue to be available on BBC Sounds.
Loyal listeners of the football podcast will still be able to enjoy the trio's insights and banter through alternative streaming services.
Lineker's departure from the BBC will be more comprehensive than initially anticipated.
After presenting his final Match of the Day programme this Sunday, the broadcaster will step away from all his BBC commitments.
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Gary Lineker has enjoyed big success with his Rest is Football podcast Rest is FootballThis includes relinquishing his role as the face of the corporation's FA Cup coverage for next season, as well as the planned presentation duties for the 2026 World Cup.
The early exit marks the end of an era for British sports broadcasting, with Lineker having been a fixture on Match of the Day since 1999.
The corporation will now need to identify suitable replacements for one of its most recognisable sporting personalities ahead of these major competitions.
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