Gary Lineker Steps Down From BBC After 'Rat' Zionism Social Media Post
3 minute readPublished: Monday, May 19, 2025 at 12:29 pm
Gary Lineker Steps Down from BBC After Controversial Social Media Post
Gary Lineker, the beloved former England soccer star and prominent BBC presenter, is leaving the British Broadcasting Corporation after facing criticism for sharing a social media post about Zionism that included an image of a rat. The post, which has historical ties to antisemitic propaganda, prompted immediate backlash.
Lineker, the BBC's highest-paid presenter, was initially slated to step down from the flagship soccer highlights show "Match of the Day" at the end of the current season but remain with the BBC for other soccer coverage, including the upcoming World Cup. However, following the controversy, the BBC announced that Lineker would be stepping down entirely after the final "Match of the Day" episode next weekend.
Lineker has since apologized for reposting the material, stating he was unaware of the offensive references and would never knowingly share anything antisemitic. He acknowledged his mistake and expressed his regret. The BBC's director-general, Tim Davie, confirmed the decision, emphasizing the importance of presenters adhering to the corporation's impartiality guidelines.
This incident highlights the ongoing tension between Lineker's outspoken political views on social media and the BBC's impartiality rules. He was previously suspended in March 2023 for criticizing the government's asylum policy. Lineker's departure has been met with mixed reactions, with some, like the Campaign Against Antisemitism, welcoming the decision, while others lament the loss of a national treasure. "Match of the Day" will be hosted by Kelly Cates, Mark Chapman and Gabby Logan for the start of the 2025-26 season.
Keywords: Gary Lineker, BBC, Match of the Day, Zionism, antisemitism, social media, controversy, England soccer, presenter, Tim Davie, impartiality, Palestine Lobby, rat, departure, football, sports journalism