Brief by Shorts91 Newsdesk / 05:49pm on 19 May 2025,Monday International
Gary Lineker, former England footballer and long-time host of Match of the Day, will leave the BBC after 26 years. The 64-year-old, who was the corporation’s highest-paid presenter, confirmed his departure following backlash over a controversial Instagram repost featuring a rat emoji, widely interpreted as antisemitic. Lineker apologised “unreservedly”, insisting he never intended to offend. His final appearance will be this Sunday, and he will not be involved in the 2026 World Cup coverage. BBC Director-General Tim Davie praised Lineker’s contribution to sports broadcasting, while the Campaign Against Antisemitism called his position “untenable” and launched a petition for his removal. (PC: NYTimes)
