BBC release statement on new MOTD format as unexpected change announced

The BBC have confirmed a new change to the format of Match of the Day following the announcement there will be three presenters of the show from next season.

It was announced in December that Gary Lineker would be stepping down from the role he has had since 1999, with Kelly Cates, Mark Chapman, and Gabby Logan now confirmed to be taking over.

While the change from one to three presenters is set to be a major change for the show, the BBC have now confirmed another significant alteration for 2025/26.

Although the trio's main responsibility will be the Saturday night showing of MOTD, they will also rotate the other football show's the BBC offer.

A statement from the BBC read: "For the first time, the role of lead presenter across the BBC’s iconic Premier League highlights programmes, Match of the Day and Match of the Day 2, and the latest addition to the BBC’s football highlights portfolio, Match of the Day Champions League, will be shared by three presenters."

The BBC acquired the rights for Champions League coverage last year, and have been running a midweek highlight show this season.

It is said that Lineker will remain a part of the BBC's FA Cup coverage for the 2025/26 campaign but is 'set to leave the BBC completely' after the 2026 World Cup in North America.

Speaking in November, the former England forward explained how “now is the right time” to move on.

"I think [with] the next [highlights] contract, they're looking to do Match of the Day slightly differently, so I think it makes sense for someone else to take the helm,” he told BBC in November.

Gary Lineker working for the BBC- Getty

"I always thought my next thing would be the end," explained on 'The Rest is Football' in November.

"I've been thinking about it for a long time. I've done Match of Day for 25 years. It's been an absolute joy and a privilege to present such an iconic show for the BBC.

"But all things have to come to an end."