Why isn't Gary Lineker presenting BBC SPOTY? Match of the Day star's absence explained

Gary Lineker will not host BBC's Sports Personality of the Year this evening (Tuesday) for the first time since 2001.

The Match of the Day presenter announced his plans in November to leave the popular football show following a 25-year stint. And Lineker, who commands a huge salary of £1.35m with the broadcaster, is also stepping down from the annual sports accolade show.

The prestigious event celebrates a UK-based athlete's significant impact on sport over the year, with the honouree selected through public voting. At the time of Lineker's announcement that he was exiting MOTD, a BBC spokesperson said: "After 23 years, last year's 70th anniversary was his (Lineker's) final show."

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Clare Balding, Gabby Logan and Alex Scott, who co-hosted alongside Lineker during his last show in 2023, are set to assume presenting duties for the SPOTY broadcast tonight. Despite leaving MOTD and SPOTY, the ex-England forward hasn't concluded his relationship with the Beeb, as he's slated to be part of the channel's team for the 2026 men's World Cup.

Additionally, Lineker will lead FA Cup coverage for next season, continue participating in the MOTD Top 10 podcast, and feature in The Rest is Football podcast with Alan Shearer and Micah Richards, which will be available on BBC Sounds, reports the Express.

Lineker expressed his pleasure at continuing to work with the BBC, saying: "I'm delighted to continue my long association with BBC Sport and would like to thank all those who made this happen."

It has since been reported