Gary Lineker breaks silence after quitting BBC over antisemitism row

Gary Lineker has broken his silence to confirm he is quitting the BBC following backlash to a controversial post which was deemed to be antisemitic.

Last week, the ex Spurs and Barcelona player reposted a video about Zionism - the movement to create a Jewish state in the Middle East - from an account called 'Palestine Lobby'.

The video, which was shared to Lineker's 1.2 million Instagram followers, included a cartoon illustration of a rat - a term used in Nazi Germany as a slur against Jewish people.

Lineker received strong backlash from the post and proceeded to issue an apologetic statement after taking the content down.

The 64-year-old wrote: “I very much regret these references. 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.”

However, on Sunday, The Sun reported that Lineker had agreed a mutual exit from the BBC - much sooner than the expected end date.

It was already confirmed that Lineker would be stepping down from his Match of the Day hosting role at the end of the 2024/25 season, allowing Mark Chapman, Kelly Cates and Gabby Logan to share the gig.

Gary Lineker issues statement after BBC departure is confirmed

Lineker was due to front the BBC's coverage of the FA Cup as well the 2026 World Cup in North America but his swansong after 26 years will be on Sunday when he anchors Match of the Day for the last time.

Addressing his decision to depart, Lineker said: “Football has been at the heart of my life for as long as I can remember – both on the pitch and in the studio.

“I care deeply about the game, and about the work I’ve done with the BBC over many years. As I’ve said, I would never consciously repost anything antisemitic – it goes against everything I stand for.

“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.”

Lineker also shared a video on Instagram where he said he did not see the rat emoji in the content which he reshared to his feed as he explained his decision in an emotional message.

"Last week I shared a post here on Instagram that contained an emoji that has awful connotations," Lineker began.

'Unfortunately I did not see that emoji. If I had, I would have never, ever have shared it.

"The minute I was made aware, I quickly deleted the post and went on to make an apology. I would like to say once again I am sorry unreservedly for the hurt and upset caused.

"It was a genuine mistake and oversight but I should have been more diligent.

"I've stood up for minorities and humanitarian issues and against all forms of racism in all of my life - including of course antisemitism - which I absolutely abhor.

"There's no place for it and never should be. So I think it's best for all concerned that I step down from BBC presenting duties altogether and not do next season's FA Cup or World Cup.

"The final day of the Premier League season on Sunday will be my last show. It's been a pleasure and a huge privilege working with the BBC for 30 years - especially hosting Match of the Day - a programme that is so closed to my heart and an integral part of my life.

"I'd like to thank the lovely and quite brilliant people both in front and behind the camera that I've worked alongside for three decades. You are the absolute best.

"The relationship with the BBC has been long and wonderful but it's the right time for the organisation and myself to go our separate ways.

"Thank you also to all of you for your incredible support and love over so many years. It means the world to me. I'll see you all on Sunday."

The England legend, who was suspended in 2023 amid an impartiality row in similar circumstances, is not expected to work regularly for another broadcaster and will instead concentrate on the Rest is Football podcast he presents alongside Alan Shearer and Micah Richards.

He has been the BBC's highest-paid employee, earning a reported £1.35 million per year for his presenting duties.

Lineker owns the Goalhanger company which houses the show, alongside the Rest is Politics and the Rest is History.