Gary Lineker presented the popular BBC football program Match of the Day for the last time on Sunday evening. In his final words, the 64-year-old presenter had to hold back his tears.
In November, Lineker announced that he would be leaving Match of the Day after 26 years. Initially, he was still supposed to contribute to the 2026 World Cup and the coverage of the FA Cup, but last week the BBC reported that the former footballer is leaving entirely.
Lineker came under fire earlier this month for sharing a video that was seen as antisemitic. The announcement of the video featured an image of a rat, an animal that was used in World War II by Nazi Germany to portray Jews as vermin.
The presenter offered his apologies, but his position was untenable according to British media. “It has been an absolute privilege to present Match of the Day for a quarter of a century. It has been incredibly enjoyable,” Lineker stated.
“My final thanks go out to you all,” the presenter said with a lump in his throat. “Thank you for watching, thank you for all your love and support over the years. It has been so special, and I’m sorry that your team always came last,” he joked. “It’s time to say goodbye. Farewell.”