Gary Lineker agrees deal with new broadcaster just a week after quitting BBC

Gary Lineker has agreed a deal that will see him present for another broadcaster, just a week after leaving the BBC.

The 64-year-old had been expected to continue fronting coverage of the men's FA Cup and World Cup on the BBC, but after presenting his final episode of Match of the Day on May 26, he confirmed his departure from the company.

It came after the former Barcelona, Spurs and Leicester striker was criticised for sharing a social media post about Zionism that included an illustration of a rat, historically used as an antisemitic insult.

Lineker, meanwhile, said he did not see the image, and "would never consciously repost anything antisemitic", adding: "However, I recognise the error and upset that I caused, and reiterate how sorry I am. Stepping back now feels like the responsible course of action."

Now, it has been announced that Lineker's podcast, The Rest Is Football, has agreed a deal with DAZN that will see them broadcast match footage from the Club World Cup, with Lineker set to present the highlights show, according to the Telegraph.

DAZN, who are global broadcast rights holders for this summer's 32-team tournament, have confirmed that the best moments from games will be shown on The Rest is Football and their video version of the podcast.

Pete Oliver, who is the CEO of Growth Markets at DAZN, has welcomed the partnership.

“The Rest Is Football is essential viewing and listening for fans who want insight, entertainment, and personality – and this partnership is a brilliant way to bring the Fifa Club World Cup even closer to that audience," he said.

"It’s about connecting global football with the voices fans trust and love, and showing the tournament in a fresh, exciting, and authentically British way. As the global broadcast partner of the Fifa Club World Cup and the only place where fans in the UK can watch every game for free, there was no better partner than Goalhanger.”

DAZN bought the global rights to the Club World Cup for $1 billion. Image credit: Getty

As mentioned above, Lineker was still scheduled to present next season's coverage of the FA Cup for the BBC, as well as the 2026 World Cup in North America, until recently.

Last month, The Sun reported that Lineker had made a mutual agreement to leave after he received backlash for reposting a video about Zionism from an account called 'Palestine Lobby' that contained a cartoon illustration of a rat.

Lineker faced heavy backlash from Jewish groups and issued a statement apologising for the post and any offence caused.

“I very much regret these references," Lineker said. "I would never knowingly share anything antisemitic. It goes against everything I believe in. The post was removed as soon as I became aware of the issue.

“Whilst I strongly believe in the importance of speaking out on humanitarian issues, including the tragedy unfolding in Gaza, I also know that how we do so matters. I take full responsibility for this mistake. That image does not reflect my views.”