How does the BBC report on big stories about itself?

BBC News and BBC Sport are required to report on the organization whenever significant news events occur, just like they are with any other information that is of public interest.

Because the BBC operates internal divisions, journalists at the BBC are not always informed about important decisions made by those in charge.

Staff members follow the same procedures and standards as they would with any other story, including contacting the press office, requesting comments and interviews from the people who are related to the story, and doing so with the same methods and standards as they would with any other story.

Then, they make an effort to make the news as objective, accurate, and transparent as possible.

For unplanned interviews with senior figures at home, in corridors, or on the street, journalists for BBC News and BBC Sport occasionally even “doordoor” their bosses.

For various reasons, BBC stories may be reported first elsewhere. Other media outlets may have received information from a source who has not yet reached BBC journalists, or they may have used a different method to publish news stories.

One instance of BBC journalists having to report on a significant story involving their employer is Gary Lineker’s departure from the job.

How has the BBC made the story known to the public?

Lineker announced in November 2024 that he would stop hosting BBC Sport’s coverage of the 2026 World Cup and the FA Cup in its place at the end of the season.

About 50 minutes later, BBC News reporters confirmed the news’ accuracy after it was first reported by other media outlets.

Lineker was reported to have left the BBC earlier than expected and ceased to host the World Cup or FA Cup, according to reports on Sunday.

Following his apology for sharing a social media post about Zionism, the BBC reported that BBC bosses considered Lineker’s position untenable. An announcement was expected on Monday, according to its culture and media editor Katie Razzall.

According to the BBC’s social media guidelines, presenters of flagship programs “have a particular responsibility to respect the BBC’s impartiality.”

Monday at noon was the day’s official announcement.

Gary acknowledged his error, according to BBC director-general Tim Davie. We have mutually agreed that he will stop presenting more after the current season.

Gary has over 20 years’ worth of experience covering football for the BBC. His enthusiasm and knowledge have helped shape the sport’s journalism and earned him respect from UK and international sports fans. We want to thank him for his contribution.

Lineker expressed his regrets in a statement and acknowledged the “error and upset caused” situation.

“I care deeply about the work I’ve done for the BBC over the years. I would never intentionally repost anything antisemitic, as I’ve already said because it contradicts everything I stand for.

Director of sport Alex Kay-Jelski sent an email to BBC staff shortly after the news broke.

He said, “I appreciate the last week has been difficult and emotional for many of you.”

“Thank you for all the messages and conversations, even if some of them weren’t straightforward. And I hope you now understand that I had to wait to share the news with you.

“It’s sad to be sadly departed from such a brilliant broadcaster,” Gary said.

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