Gary Lineker quits Sports Personality of the Year as major BBC changes continue

Gary Lineker has stepped down from his role as presenter of the after 23 years.

It follows the former striker's decision to leave at the end of the current season. The announced on Tuesday that Lineker has , one which includes before leaving the broadcaster altogether in July 2026 following the .

Now a BBC spokesperson has said via : "We can confirm Gary has decided to step down from the team presenting BBC Sports Personality Of The Year. After 23 years, last year's 70th anniversary was his final show."

It's understood the decision wasn't related to Lineker's contract discussions. The 62-year-old hosted the 2023 awards ceremony alongside former international , and long-time BBC presenters and . It's currently unknown who'll replace him.

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The same goes for his Match of the Day role, with Mark Chapman - who already hosts MOTD 2 on a Sunday - the early favourite. The corporation say that 'future plans for Match of the Day will be announced in due course'.

His previous contract with the BBC was due to expire in 2025 but Lineker's extension signals the beginning of the end. Although he'll stop presenting Match of the Day, the TV icon will present their coverage in the 2025-26 season.

Lineker's final bow will be the 2026 World Cup final which is due to be held in New Jersey, USA. "I'm delighted to continue my long association with BBC Sport and would like to thank all those who made this happen," Lineker said following Tuesday's announcement.

Get involved! Who should replace Gary Lineker on Match of the Day? Tell us your pick in the .

, director of BBC Sport, added: "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. After 25 seasons Gary is stepping down from MOTD.

"We want to thank him for everything he has done for the show, which continues to attract millions of viewers each week. He'll be hugely missed on the show but we're so happy he is staying with the BBC to present live football."

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