Gary Lineker to leave BBC Match of the Day hosting role

Gary Lineker has been the face of BBC’s football coverage for decades <i>(Image: MOTD)</i>
Gary Lineker has been the face of BBC’s football coverage for decades (Image: MOTD)
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Gary Lineker is set to step down from his role as Match of the Day host after 25 years, according to reports.

The ex-England forward, who has been the face of the BBC's English Premier League highlights program since 1999, is set to depart from his position at the conclusion of the current football season.

It's believed that the 64-year-old will continue his association with the BBC until the completion of the upcoming World Cup, which will take place in the United States, Mexico, and Canada in 2026.

There’s been a shakeup of the show in recent years, with former Celtic goalkeeper Joe Hart among the fresh faces joining the regular punditry team for the 2024/25 campaign.

Mark Chapman, Gabby Logan and Alex Scott have immediately been installed as the front-runners to replace Lineker on the much-loved programme.

More to follow. 

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