Following a lot of backlash from his social media posts, Gary Lineker apologized for his actions and announced he would leave his BBC presenting position early.
Downing Street has had its say on the Gary Lineker saga after the BBC presenter announced he is leaving his role with the organisation. The former footballer, 64, issued an apology as he announced he was quitting his position following a row over a post many deemed antisemitism.
Earlier this week Lineker spoke out on the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and shared a pro-Palestine video on his Instagram account. The upload featured a rat emoji from the campaign group, Palestine Lobby. Lineker swiftly deleted the post and issued an apology soon after, but was met with huge backlash online.
He has now announced he will leave the organisation at the end of this football season. Lineker was due to finishing presenting Match of the Day this season but front BBC’s World Cup coverage in 2026 – which will no longer be the case.
Downing Street also addressed his decision, stating in a statement that the former sports star had made a “significant contribution” to the BBC. However, they claimed it was crucial that the broadcaster uphold the “highest standards.”
The Prime Minister’s official spokesman said: “Specifically in relation to the social media post by Gary Lineker, that was clearly completely unacceptable and it’s right that he’s apologised. Staffing matters are obviously one for the BBC and for the individual involved, but we’ve always said that it’s important for the BBC to uphold the highest standards as the public would expect.
Gary Lineker has obviously made a significant contribution to the BBC’s broadcasting over the past 20 years, and I believe we should have known when he first announced his departure from the organization.
Lineker claimed in a social media post on Monday that he believed that stepping aside would be the best move for everyone in light of the circumstances. He continued, “I’m forever sorry for the pain and suffering caused.”
Hello everyone, some personal news, he said. An emoji that has awful connotations appeared in a post I shared last week on Instagram. Sadly, I missed the emoji. I would never, ever share it if I had.
“I immediately deleted the post and apologized as soon as I was made aware.” I once more regret the pain and suffering that resulted, as I am aware that I should have been more careful.
I’ve always championed minorities, humanitarian issues, and antisemitism, which I detest in every way possible. There is no place for it. I believe that stepping down from BBC duties immediately and not participating in the FA Cup or World Cup of the following year is best for everyone involved.
My final performance will be this weekend’s Match of the Day. Working for the BBC for 30 years has been a pleasure and a great honor.
“The BBC and I have a long and wonderful relationship, but this is the right time to leave,” I said.
I’ll see you all on Sunday, thank you also to each of you for your unmatched love and support for so long.
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Source: Mirror
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