Gary Lineker signs new deal just days after BBC removes him from archives

WATCH NOW: Gary Lineker breaks down in tears over Match of the Day exit

BBC
Fintan Starkey

By Fintan Starkey


Published: 03/06/2025

- 11:56

The former Match of the Day Presenter's podcast has been removed from BBC archives

Gary Lineker's departure from the BBC came earlier than planned following controversy over a social media post he shared about Zionism.

The video posted to Lineker's personal Instagram account featured a cartoon depiction of a rat, which has historically been used as an antisemitic symbol.


The post was subsequently removed and Lineker issued a public apology.

However, the damage had been done, with the broadcaster moving to cancel his planned presenting roles despite his attempt to address the situation.

Gary LinekerGary Lineker was axed after an anti-Semitic post he made on his social media channelsPA

Gary Lineker has secured a new home for his podcast by penning a deal with DAZN. The Rest Is Football will continue under the streaming platform following its removal from BBC archives after Lineker's departure from the broadcaster.

The move provides continuity for the popular football podcast, which had built a significant following during its time with the BBC.

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DAZN's acquisition of the show represents a notable coup for the sports streaming service as it continues to expand its content offerings beyond live sport coverage.

Plans for the former England international to front the BBC's coverage of the 2026 World Cup and next season's FA Cup were scrapped following the social media controversy. The broadcaster moved swiftly to cancel these high-profile presenting roles despite Lineker's public apology.

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Gary Lineker

Gary Lineker has a successful podcast business

RESTISFOOTBALL

The Rest Is Football was also removed from the BBC archives shortly after Lineker's departure from the corporation.

The podcast's removal represented a comprehensive severing of ties between the broadcaster and its former flagship presenter, eliminating both future commitments and past content from the BBC's platforms.

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Lineker's final BBC appearance was the season-ending episode of Match of the Day, which aired on May 25.

The programme featured a lengthy tribute to the 64-year-old presenter, acknowledging his long-standing contribution to the broadcaster's football coverage.

Gary LinekerGary Lineker will not face any police action after his controversial social media postPA

The episode concluded with a tearful sign-off from Lineker himself, marking the end of his tenure with the corporation.

The emotional farewell provided closure to what had been an abrupt conclusion to his BBC career, with the presenter visibly moved as he bid farewell to viewers after years of fronting the flagship football programme.