Gary Lineker is set to be lose out on a huge payday after stepping down from his role at the BBC, where he was paid £1.35million a year.
The former England international has been axed from the BBC following an anti-Semitism controversy sparked by his social media post featuring a rat emoji.
The 64-year-old, who was the broadcaster's highest-paid presenter, will leave his role at Match of the Day earlier than planned.
The controversy erupted after Lineker shared a video about the Israel-Palestine conflict that contained imagery historically used in anti-Semitic Nazi propaganda.
Gary Lineker stepped down from his role at the BBC after sharing material on his social media that has been deemed anti-Semitic
Reuters
Lineker reposted a video from the group Palestine Lobby titled 'Zionism explained in two minutes', which featured a rat as a symbol to represent Israelis.
This imagery has been previously used in anti-Semitic Nazi propaganda.
Though Lineker quickly deleted the post after realising his mistake, the damage had already been done, leading to significant backlash and calls for his removal from the BBC.
The financial impact of Lineker's departure is substantial. He will lose his full £1.35 million annual salary, which made him the BBC's highest-paid presenter, earning 42 per cent more than the next top earner, Zoe Ball.
Additionally, an estimated £800,000 contract extension to front FA Cup coverage and next summer's World Cup has been torn up.
Lineker had initially planned to step down from Match of the Day but continue with other major events.
Following the controversy, Lineker acknowledged his error, stating: "I recognise the error and upset that I caused."
In a mutually-agreed departure, Lineker sacrificed any severance pay-off, a significant financial concession given his high-profile status at the broadcaster.
The departure will also impact Lineker's podcast presence on BBC Sounds.
Gary Lineker said he was "sorry, unreservedly, for the hurt and upset caused"PAThe licensing deal for Goalhanger's 'The Rest Is Football' podcast, which Lineker anchors, will not be renewed beyond this summer.
A decision has yet to be made regarding 'The Rest Is History', another popular podcast from his production company.
These shows had been available to BBC listeners as part of the corporation's audio offerings.
Despite losing his BBC income, Lineker's financial future remains secure.
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He continues to run his own podcast company, Goalhanger, which produces popular shows including those previously available on BBC Sounds.
The former footballer's personal wealth means he doesn't rely solely on his broadcasting career for income.
This Sunday's Match of the Day will mark Lineker's final appearance on the BBC after his distinguished tenure with the corporation.
