Gary Lineker is to depart the BBC after this season’s closing Match of the Day and can now not current its protection of the World Cup subsequent yr, Sky Information understands.
It comes after he “apologised unreservedly” for a social media re-post that includes a rat, saying he would “never knowingly share anything antisemitic”.
Lineker’s final look on the BBC will likely be on Might 25, the ultimate day of the season, with affirmation anticipated on Monday.
The previous England star introduced in November he would step down from Match of the Day this yr, however was set to return to entrance the World Cup in 2026, in addition to FA Cup protection.
Lineker, 64, stated he was unaware the publish he shared was antisemitic and that it went in opposition to “everything I believe in”.
The presenter was quickly suspended from the BBC in March 2023 after an impartiality row over feedback he made criticising the then Conservative authorities’s asylum coverage.
Lineker has hosted Match Of The Day since 1999 and has been the BBC’s highest-paid on-air expertise for seven consecutive years.
Mark Chapman, Kelly Cates and Gabby Logan will take over the highlights present from subsequent season.
When the trio take over as hosts, it will likely be the primary time the position has been shared by three individuals.
Sky Information has contacted the BBC for remark.
