Gary Lineker agrees a contract extension with the BBC
Gary will be in charge of covering the 2026 World Cup and will also host BBC Sport’s coverage of the FA Cup during the 2025/26 season.
Posted: 10:00 AM on November 12, 2024.
Revised: 11:12 AM, November 12, 2024
Gary is an exceptional presenter, and we’re excited to have him at the helm of our coverage for the upcoming World Cup. He will also keep guiding our live broadcasts of the FA Cup.
The BBC and Gary Lineker have reached a preliminary agreement to extend his contract until the 2026 World Cup. Gary will be at the forefront of the tournament's coverage, as the England men's team seeks to secure their first major championship since 1966. Meanwhile, the other Home Nations will aim for qualification, and Lionel Messi will strive to defend the title he claimed with Argentina.
Gary will return to BBC Sport to present the FA Cup coverage for the 2025/26 season, marking 35 years since he won the trophy as a player.
After 25 years, Gary is leaving his role as host of Match of the Day at the conclusion of this season. However, he will still be involved with the MOTD Top Ten podcast, and the BBC will also feature the well-liked podcast The Rest is Football on BBC Sounds.
Gary Lineker expressed his happiness by saying, "I'm thrilled to keep my longstanding connection with BBC Sport and I want to extend my gratitude to everyone who helped make this possible."
Alex Kay-Jelski, the Director of BBC Sport, expressed his excitement, stating, “Gary is an exceptional presenter, and we’re thrilled that he will spearhead our coverage of the upcoming World Cup while continuing to oversee our live broadcasts of the FA Cup.”
"After 25 seasons, Gary is leaving his role on MOTD. We want to express our gratitude for all that he has contributed to the program, which still draws in millions of viewers every week. His presence on the show will be greatly missed, but we’re thrilled that he will continue with the BBC to present live football."
Last season, Match of the Day attracted 33 million viewers through the Premier League and FA Cup, solidifying its status as a must-watch for football enthusiasts. Fans still feel a thrill when they hear that famous theme music on Saturday nights.
The program is always adapting to new viewing preferences, providing distinct and unparalleled insights and commentary on all platforms. Announcements regarding the future of Match of the Day will be made when the time is right.
Like all major events, the 2026 World Cup is governed by an agreement regarding broadcasting rights.
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