Gary Lineker 'quits the BBC' after post supporting Gaza aid sparks media row

Gary Lineker has reportedly quit the BBC following the controversy over his social media post on the humanitarian crisis in Gaza

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Reports indicate that Gary Lineker has shockingly decided to leave the BBC following controversy over a social media post concerning the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.

Although Lineker was already set to depart from his role as host of Match of the Day after this season, he had plans to remain at the forefront of the FA Cup presentation and the World Cup 2026 coverage.

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However, according to information from The Sun, he will bid farewell to the BBC after hosting his final Match of the Day for the concluding Premier League matches next Sunday. It is expected that Lineker will make his announcement on Monday.

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The former footballer faced criticism for posting a pro-Palestine video, shared by the Palestine Lobby group, which included a rat emoji that was described as antisemitic - the post was then removed when this was flagged.

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Lineker has since issued an apology and removed the contentious video from his Instagram story, reports the Mirror.

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He stated: "On Instagram I reposted material which I have since learned contained offensive references. I very much regret these references. I would never knowingly share anything antisemitic. It goes against everything I believe in."

He further clarified, "The post was removed as soon as I became aware of the issue. Whilst I strongly believe in the importance of speaking out on humanitarian issues, including the tragedy unfolding in Gaza, I also know that how we do so matters.

"I take full responsibility for this mistake. That image does not reflect my views. It was an error on my part for which I apologise unreservedly."

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Lineker's reported departure follows claims in the iPaper that sources close to the situation believe his role had become untenable, adding that details of any potential exit deal have yet to be finalised as tensions are said to be reaching a climax after days of intensifying scrutiny on the broadcaster to respond.

Before making the apology, reports circulated that certain BBC staff members were incensed by the entity's inaction towards Lineker despite his alleged "repeated offensiveness to Jewish people".

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An unnamed BBC staff member voiced their dismay, stating: "It is quite simply disgusting that the BBC has not kicked Lineker out. His repeated offensiveness to Jewish people has clearly brought the BBC into disrepute.

"The interpretation of Zionism he has shared is anti-Semitic and the fact that the BBC thinks it's acceptable is deeply upsetting to its Jewish staff, myself included."

Defending his pro-Palestine stance in the past, Lineker remarked: "It's beyond depraved, what they're [the Palestinian people] are going through, unimaginable.

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"I don't know how the world can think it’s OK. We still seem to be on the side of the oppressors. We’re still supplying them with arms. And you just think, 'How?' The vast majority of people see it for what it is now."

Since the October 7 terror attacks coordinated by Hamas on Israeli settlements and civilians bordering Gaza, which killed almost 1200 people, an estimated 53,272 Palestinians have been killed by Israel's war on the occupied territory. 58 hostages are thought to remain in Gaza after being taken by militants.

Gary Lineker expressed his concerns about the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, stating: "Palestinians are caged in this outdoor prison in Gaza, and now it's an outdoor prison that they're bombing. Israel say it's self-defence, but really? Self-defence against what now?"

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He added: "Yes, I understand that they needed to avenge, but I don't think they've helped their own hostage situation at all. People say it's a complex issue, but I don't think it is. It's inevitable that the Israeli occupation was going to cause massive problems, and I just feel for the Palestinians."

When asked about potential criticism, Lineker stood firm: "I don't really care about the backlash. I care about doing the right thing, or what I think is the right thing. Some people can disagree, that's fine. But I have to look at myself in the mirror. I think if you're silent on these issues, you're almost complicit."

The former England striker has worked with the BBC for 26 years, earning him the title of highest-paid presenter, following a successful football career with Tottenham, Everton, Leicester, and Barcelona, as well as scoring 48 goals for England.

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