Gary Lineker’s future at the BBC has been thrown into doubt, according to reports.
From next season, the broadcaster will screen a Champions League highlights programme after recently obtaining the rights to the competition.
Lineker had been widely expected to present the show, having previously done so for BT Sport.
However, according to The Telegraph, that now won’t be happening with the 63-year-old overlooked for the role.
Gary Lineker’s future at the BBC has been plunged into doubt
BBC
It’s claimed Lineker had been in talks with the BBC but failed to receive a ‘formal offer’ from the broadcaster.
He reportedly has a busy schedule, with his Rest is Football podcast currently soaring in popularity amid the current European Championships.
And Lineker was also reportedly reluctant to travel to the BBC headquarters in Salford from his home in west London, too.
Gabby Logan has been given the role instead, with an official announcement due after the Paris Olympics.
Lineker’s long-term future at the BBC is currently up in the air, with the former Tottenham and Leicester star’s contract due to expire next year.
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It is described as a ‘matter’ for director general Tim Davie to deal with.
Lineker has hosted Match of the Day ever since 1999.
The BBC recently secured a four-year deal for the show that will run until 2029.
But they will need clarity swiftly on the subject in order to plan for the future. Whether that’s with Lineker, or without, remains to be seen.
Lineker was suspended for a week by the BBC in March last year after criticising the government and saying their language around asylum policy was “not dissimilar to that used by Germany in the 30s.”
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BBC colleagues, including pundits and commentators, then went on strike in a show of support.
An independent panel later ruled that the BBC’s non-news presenters, including Lineker, should be able to express political opinions.
Lineker has continued to be vocal on political matters in the time since, though has toned things down somewhat.
And he’s also caused controversy while working for the BBC at Euro 2024, too.
Lineker appeared to break BBC guidelines by wearing his own range of Next clothing last month.
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Gary Lineker has been overlooked by the BBC in favour of Gabby Logan
PA
The Beeb responded to that issue by saying they had reminded all of their presenters of the rules. No action was taken.
Lineker described England as ‘s**t’ after the 1-1 draw between England and Denmark, too.
Many were unhappy with the language he used, with Gareth Southgate and Harry Kane forced to answer questions on the subject.
Gary Lineker’s long-term future at the BBC is up in the air
PA
Last night, as Spain beat France 2-1, Lineker made a joke about things being all about the ‘left’ this week.
That was in reference to the recent elections in France.
But fans were unhappy with his comments, with many calling for the BBC to take appropriate action.
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