BREAKING: Gary Lineker quits Sports Personality of the Year as major BBC changes continue

Gary Lineker will quit Match of the Day at the end of the current Premier League season but the BBC have now confirmed that he's already presented their Sports Personality of the Year for the last time

Gary Lineker has stepped down from role presenting the BBC's Sports Personality of the Year after 23 years.

It follows the former England striker's decision to leave Match of the Day at the end of the current Premier League season. The BBC announced on Tuesday that Lineker has signed a new 18-month contract, one which includes an agreement to quit MOTD in May next year before leaving the broadcaster altogether in July 2026 following the World Cup.

Now a BBC spokesperson has said via the Sun: "We can confirm Gary has decided to step down from the team presenting BBC Sports Personality Of The Year. After 23 years, last year's 70th anniversary was his final show."

It's understood the decision isn't related to Lineker's contract discussions. The 62-year-old presented the 2023 edition alongside former England Women's international Alex Scott, and TV presenters Gabby Logan and Clare Balding. It's current unknown who will replace him.

The same goes for his Match of the Day role, with BBC presenter Mark Chapman the early favourite. Lineker's contract with the corporation was due to expire in 2025 but his new deal with bring significant changes.

Although he'll stop presenting Match of the Day, the TV icon will present the BBC's FA Cup coverage in the 2025-26 season. His final bow will be the 2026 World Cup final which is due to be held in New Jersey, USA.

"I'm delighted to continue my long association with BBC Sport and would like to thank all those who made this happen," Lineker said following Tuesday's announcement.

Alex Kay-Jelski, director of BBC Sport, added: "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. After 25 seasons Gary is stepping down from MOTD.

"We want to thank him for everything he has done for the show, which continues to attract millions of viewers each week. He'll be hugely missed on the show but we're so happy he is staying with the BBC to present live football."

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