Gary Lineker has confirmed that he will not be joining another TV channel after he leaves the BBC next year. Instead, he will dedicate his time to expanding his podcast business.
Lineker, aged 64, will step down from his role as the presenter of Match of the Day in May, after hosting the show for 26 years. He will fully depart from the BBC in 2026, following the next season`s FA Cup and World Cup broadcasts.
There was much speculation about the future of the former England star, with many wondering if he would move to Sky Sports or another channel.
However, the former footballer has stated firmly that he will not be appearing on any competing television networks and will instead concentrate on his podcasts.
Lineker mentioned in an interview with FourFourTwo magazine, “I don`t anticipate doing much football commentary, except for the podcast.”
He added, “I might do occasional appearances, but I don`t think you`ll see me regularly on another channel.”
Lineker admitted that he had discussions with Sky, but his loyalty remained with the BBC.
Therefore, the former Barcelona player will focus on his successful Goalhanger Podcasts, which includes popular shows like The Rest Is Football, co-hosted with his Match of the Day colleagues Alan Shearer and Micah Richards, as well as The Rest Is Politics and The Rest Is History.
Remarkably, his 13 podcasts together achieve over 40 million downloads every month.
According to Podwatch, which gathers data from iTunes and Spotify, Goalhanger Podcasts holds the top four positions in the UK podcast charts.
Lineker further explained, “We`ve had discussions with Sky at different times, but I always preferred to stay with the BBC.”
“I could have earned significantly more elsewhere, although I acknowledge I have been well compensated at the BBC.”
“I`ve received offers to move to other places, but I simply enjoy being with the BBC, and I value how it benefits my other ventures.”
“It`s not just the prestige; the audience reach is much larger. Match of the Day still attracts more viewers than perhaps the biggest live football game on Sunday.”
“Also, I consider myself quite loyal. I`ve been with the same hairdresser for 40 years, the same gym trainer for 30 years, and the same agent since I was 18…”
Gary Lineker will be succeeded by a presenting team of three: Kelly Cates, Mark Chapman, and Gabby Logan, starting from next season.
