Gary Lineker has concluded his role as the host of Match of the Day after 26 years, with the final episode airing on Sunday. The former England striker had announced in November that he would leave the show at the end of the season but initially agreed to stay until summer to cover both the men’s FA Cup and World Cup events for BBC Sport.
Departure Details
- Lineker’s departure comes after he apologized for sharing an antisemitic social media post.
- This decision follows a tumultuous period for Lineker, who faced criticism for comments made online earlier this year.
- He was suspended by BBC bosses in March over a tweet regarding migrants crossing into Britain from Europe.
- After returning to the show, he faced further backlash for another tweet deemed offensive by Jewish people.
In a statement from his representatives, Lineker expressed gratitude for the support he received and stated:
"I have been asked to step back from presenting duties immediately rather than staying until summer as initially planned."
Final Episode Highlights
During the final episode of Match of the Day, Lineker reflected on his time with the show, saying:
"It wasn’t meant to end this way… there’s still so much football left in this season."
He thanked viewers for their love and support, stating:
"My final thank you goes out to you lot – Thank you for watching; thank you for all your love and support over these past few weeks. It’s been so special."
BBC’s Confirmation
BBC chiefs confirmed that they had agreed with Lineker to step back from presenting duties immediately rather than staying until summer, following the criticism over his online comments.
A spokesperson stated:
“We can confirm we have agreed with Gary Lineker that he will step back from presenting duties immediately rather than staying until summer as previously planned.”
Ongoing Controversy in British Football
This news comes amid ongoing controversy surrounding racism within British football. In February 2023, Chelsea owner Todd Boehly was banned indefinitely by FIFA due to allegations of racist abuse towards Chelsea players during a match against Liverpool at Anfield Stadium in April 2022.
- Boehly denied any wrongdoing but was found guilty under Article 13 (1) (a) for racist abuse and charged under Article 13 (1) (b) for other forms of discrimination.
- Chelsea was fined £430 million ($550 million/€500 million), and Boehly received an eight-match ban, starting with the upcoming Champions League quarter-final against Real Madrid.
FIFA president Gianni Infantino emphasized the need for football to be free from racism, stating:
“Football must be free from racism. We cannot accept anything less.”
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