Match of the Day could be set for some major changes if Gary Lineker decides to part ways with the show.
The iconic programme has been synonymous with Lineker, who has become the face of the show for a quarter of a century, devoting most of his punditry career to the BBC. Earlier this month, whispers started swirling that Lineker's longstanding position might be in jeopardy. As Lineker's contract is set to expire at the end of this season, football fans and media pundits alike have been left guessing if he'll be gracing our screens for the 2025/26 season. The rumour mills went into overdrive after an alleged email from director of sport Alex Kay-Jelski discussing Lineker's departure surfaced.
The Beeb, however, was quick off the mark to quash these rumours, insisting they had no intention of saying goodbye to Lineker just yet. They were adamant in their response: "We have nothing to announce, and we have not agreed on the next steps regarding his contract. He is on contract until the end of the season."
But what if Lineker decided to hang up his presenting boots, potentially followed by his co-host Alan Shearer? Who would the BBC draft in to headline the popular Saturday evening football highlights? Here is how the dramatic events could shake out.
Gary Lineker leaves the BBC
Gary Lineker, the BBC's top-paid talent with an eye-watering £1.35million salary for his presenting duties, is reportedly prepared to take a pay cut to continue his long-standing commitment to the Beeb beyond the current Premier League season as his contract nears its end. Last month, a source divulged to The Sun: "Gary is hugely popular with both fans and players alike. The sense is that, with so much uncertainty and scandal at the BBC right
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