Gary Lineker makes final BBC Match of the Day decision as new 'quit' claims made

Gary Lineker is set to conclude his tenure as the host of Match of the Day at the end of the current season, but he's expected to stay with the BBC until the end of the 2026 World Cup according to reports.

Having become the longest-serving presenter in the history of MOTD since taking the reins in 1999, Lineker's future has been the subject of much speculation. As of now, it remains unclear who will step into his shoes.

Earlier in 2024, there was a buzz about an internal BBC email leak hinting at an imminent announcement regarding Lineker's departure. This was later denied, with the BBC clarifying that negotiations were still in progress concerning his contract renewal.

In early October, Lineker humorously remarked that he was hosting his "final show... before the international break". However, recent revelations indicate that his departure date from the show may have been decided.

Lineker's current contract for the flagship football programme is due to expire after this season. Nevertheless, The Sun claims that an agreement has been reached for him to continue covering FA Cup and World Cup events for the broadcaster, albeit with a 'substantial' reduction in salary, reports the Mirror.

The upcoming 2026 World Cup will be notable for expanding to include 48 teams. Throughout his broadcasting career, Lineker has fronted a considerable portion of the BBC's major tournament coverage, including the 2024 European Championships.

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Lineker, one of the BBC's top earners with a seven-figure salary, has hinted at a possible departure from his broadcasting duties in an interview with Esquire. He mused: "I could [leave]. Whether that will be the case I don't know. At some point, I have to slow down somewhere... I'm getting old."

Aside from his role on television, Lineker is involved in various projects, including podcasting. The ex-striker, who is set to turn 65 when his current extended contract expires, co-founded Goalhanger Productions and features on The Rest is Football podcast.

The BBC announced in September that Lineker would not join the hosting team for their new Champions League highlights programme. Instead, Gabby Logan, Mark Chapman, and Jason Mohammad have been rotating presenting responsibilities for the midweek shows.

Earlier this year, during Match of the Day's 60th-anniversary celebrations, Lineker discussed his future with BBC Breakfast, where he seemed quite content. "It depends how long they want me, I suppose," he said.

"I love doing it at the moment; I've still got another year left, at least. So we'll have to wait and see what happens."

"Obviously it's another change in football and television and the rights of the Premier League and stuff like that. All of these things will play a part. But I just feel it's been an absolute privilege to have presented it for 25 years now. I must be getting old!"