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Gary Lineker on why he thinks BBC wanted him to quit MOTD

Gary Lineker will step down from Match Of The Day in 2026
Gary Lineker will step down from Match Of The Day in 2026 (PA Wire)
  • Gary Lineker is leaving the BBC after the 2026 World Cup, ending his long tenure as host of Match Of The Day.
  • Lineker believes the BBC wanted him to step down, suggesting they preferred to bring in new talent.
  • He expressed no regrets about his controversial tweet comparing UK asylum policy to 1930s Germany, though he wouldn't repeat it due to the ensuing uproar.
  • Lineker questioned the BBC's impartiality rules for freelancers like himself, emphasizing his right to express opinions.
  • He plans to focus on his podcast company, Goalhanger Podcasts, after leaving the BBC.
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