Gary Lineker, the iconic England striker turned celebrated broadcaster, has opened up about his decision to step away from hosting some of the BBC’s most prominent sports programs.
Lineker, who recently confirmed his departure from Match of the Day after an incredible 25-year tenure, also revealed that he “never really enjoyed” hosting the BBC’s annual Sports Personality of the Year (SPOTY) awards, a gig he had helmed for 23 consecutive editions.
The revelation came on his podcast The Rest Is Football, where Lineker shared candid insights into why SPOTY was the one show he always struggled to embrace. While the program remains a beloved institution for sports fans, Lineker admitted it lacked the creative freedom he thrives on as a presenter.
“It’s a great show, but it’s the one TV gig that I never really enjoyed,” Lineker confessed. He went on to explain that every aspect of SPOTY, from the interviews to the script, had to be meticulously pre-approved by BBC management, leaving little room for improvisation. “Every single word that you say on it has to be agreed by all parties at the BBC. Every single interview you do, you have to say what questions you’re going to ask. I mean, I like to ad-lib, I like to go off-piste.”
Meanwhile, this year’s SPOTY, won by Olympic sensation Keely Hodgkinson, marked the first time in over two decades that Lineker was not involved. Also, the transition came as the production of the show moved to an independent company, which Lineker saw as the perfect opportunity to step back. “Just to make it clear, what happened with Sports Personality of the Year is that it went to an independent production company,” he explained. “I saw that as an opportunity to get out of presenting it.”
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While his departure from SPOTY and Match of the Day signals the end of an era, Lineker is not leaving the BBC entirely. Furthermore, he will lead the broadcaster’s FA Cup coverage for the 2025/26 season and will headline their coverage of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, marking his final major role with the organization.
Saying so, the announcement of Lineker’s departure from Match of the Day has been met with widespread reflection on his contribution to the show, which remains a staple of British football culture. Alex Kay-Jelski, Director of BBC Sport, praised Lineker’s influence, saying: “Gary is a world-class presenter, and we’re delighted that he’ll lead our coverage of the next World Cup and continue to lead our live coverage of the FA Cup.”
Replacing Lineker on Match of the Day will be a trio of experienced presenters: Mark Chapman, Gabby Logan, and Kelly Cates. The shared hosting format signals a new chapter for the long-running program, which has consistently drawn millions of viewers under Lineker’s leadership.
Gary Lineker Reflecting on BBC Experience
Reflecting on his time with the show, Lineker expressed gratitude for the opportunity to connect with fans and showcase his passion for football. However, stepping away from the weekly grind of Match of the Day allows him to focus on other pursuits, including his rapidly growing podcast venture, Goalhanger Podcasts.
Despite his transition, Lineker’s legacy at the BBC remains undeniable. His ability to blend deep football knowledge with an approachable and witty style has made him a fan favorite, cementing his place as one of the most influential sports broadcasters of his generation.
With the World Cup and FA Cup still on his horizon, Lineker is far from finished in his broadcasting journey. Fans can look forward to seeing him bring his signature flair to these prestigious tournaments, ensuring his farewell to the BBC is one worthy of his remarkable career.