Gary Lineker is set to leave the BBC after 26 years following an anti-Semitism controversy, with his final Match of the Day appearance scheduled for this Sunday.
The former England striker's departure was confirmed by the corporation today in a brief statement.
The BBC announced that Lineker "will leave his presenting role following the conclusion of Match of the Day for the 2024/25 season."
The broadcaster also confirmed he "will not be part of the BBC's coverage of the 2026 World Cup or next season's FA Cup coverage."
Gary Lineker has sent shockwaves around the country by sensationally quitting the BBC for good
The news comes after a week of mounting pressure on the presenter.
The controversy began when Lineker shared a post from the group Palestine Lobby on Instagram with his 1.2 million followers last Tuesday.
The repost, which he later deleted, contained a video criticising Zionism and included an illustration of a rat.
This sparked immediate backlash, with the charity Campaign Against Antisemitism announcing they would submit a formal complaint to the BBC.
The post was widely condemned as antisemitic, putting significant pressure on the corporation to take action against one of its highest-profile presenters.
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Lineker reportedly met with BBC bosses last week where the agreement for him to step down was reached.
Lineker has now apologised for the post, stating: "I would never consciously repost anything antisemitic - it goes against everything I stand for."
In a statement released today, he added: "However, I recognise the error and upset that I caused, and reiterate how sorry I am. Stepping back now feels like the responsible course of action.
"So I think it's best for all concerned that I step down from presenting duties altogether and not do next season's FA Cup or World Cup.
"The final day of the Premier League season on Sunday will be my last show.
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Gary Lineker is set to leave the BBC after 26 years, with his final Match of the Day appearance scheduled for this SundayGETTY"It's been a pleasure and a huge privilege working with the BBC for the last 30 years.
"Especially hosting Match of the Day, a programme that is so close to my heart and an integral part of my life.
"I'd like to thank all of the quite brilliant, talented and lovely people both in front and behind the camera that I've worked with for three decades. You're the absolute best."
The presenter also reflected on his long career with the corporation, saying: "Football has been at the heart of my life for as long as I can remember - both on the pitch and in the studio. I care deeply about the game, and about the work I've done with the BBC over many years."
BBC Director General Tim Davie acknowledged Lineker's contributions in a statement today, saying: "Gary has been a defining voice in football coverage for the BBC for over two decades."
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He added: "His passion and knowledge have shaped our sports journalism and earned him the respect of sports fans across the UK and beyond.
"We want to thank him for the contribution he has made."
Davie also addressed the controversy directly, stating: "Gary has acknowledged the mistake he made.
"Accordingly, we have agreed he will step back from further presenting after this season."
Lineker summed up his emotional statement by concluding: "My relationship with the BBC has been long and wonderful. But it is the right time for the organisation and myself to go our separate ways.
"Thanks to all of your support and love over so many years. It means the world to me.
"I'll see you all on Sunday."
