FINALLY: Gary Lineker agrees contract extension with the BBC after MOTD exit

He will be in charge of the coverage of the 2026 World Cup.
Gary Lineker has extended his contract with the BBC through the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which the United States, Canada, and Mexico will host.

The announcement follows the announcement that Lineker will be leaving his position as Match of the Day host at the end of the current season.

The coverage of the 2026 event will continue to be led by Lineker. In addition, 35 years after winning the FA Cup as a player, he will host BBC Sport’s coverage of the competition in 2025–2026.

However, following the current season, Lineker’s tenure as Match of the Day host will end. After 26 years in the position, the BBC announced that he would be leaving.

“I’m thrilled to continue my long association with BBC Sport and would like to thank all those who made this happen,” the former Baarcelona striker stated.

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“Gary is a world-class presenter, and we’re delighted that he’ll lead our coverage of the next World Cup and continue to lead our live coverage of the FA Cup,” said Alex Kay-Jelski, Director of BBC Sport.

Gary is leaving his position as MOTD after 25 seasons.

We would want to express our gratitude to him for all that he has done for the show, which still draws millions of viewers every week.

“We are thrilled that he will continue to present live football on the BBC, even though we will really miss him on the show.”

Who will take Lineker’s place on the highlights show has not yet been confirmed by the BBC. 33 million people watched Match of the Day in the Premier League and FA Cup last season.