Gary Lineker has revealed his plans after he steps away from hosting Match of the Day and working for the BBC.
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Lineker leaving MOTD this summer"Had talks" with other broadcastersEx-striker reveals plans after thatFollow GOAL on WhatsApp! 🟢📱WHAT HAPPENED?
The former England international has lifted the lid on the "talks" he had with other broadcasters such as Sky but the ex-striker suggested he will step away from the limelight when he ends his tenure with the BBC after the 2026 World Cup.
AdvertisementGetty Images SportWHAT GARY LINEKER SAID
The 64-year-old told FourFourTwo: "I don't think you'll see me doing much football, apart from the [Rest is Football] podcast. I'll do the odd thing, but I don't think you'll see me appearing regularly on another channel."
He added: "We've had talks with Sky at various points, but I always wanted to stick with the BBC. I could have earned a lot more, though I know I've been well paid anyway, obviously. I've had offers to go elsewhere but I just loved being with the BBC, and also how it helps everything else you do. It's not only the kudos, the audience is much bigger. More people still watch Match of the Day than probably the biggest live game on Sundays. Also, I'm quite loyal. I've had the same guy cut my hair for 40 years, the same guy training me in the gym for 30 years, the same agent since I was 18…"
THE BIGGER PICTURE
Lineker is stepping down as host of Match of the Day in May, ending 26 years in the show's hot seat. He will also front coverage of next season's FA Cup and the 2026 World Cup but Kelly Cates, Mark Chapman, and Gabby Logan will take over at MOTD. This really will be the end of an era.
Getty Images SportWHAT NEXT?
All eyes will be on what Lineker turns his attention to after his time with the BBC concludes, and if he could be tempted back into presenting.