Gary Lineker's BBC Departure: Final Interview with Mohamed Salah Canceled

Gary Lineker's Exit from BBC

Gary Lineker's last interview as a broadcaster for the BBC was reportedly called off due to concerns that he might touch upon the ongoing conflict in Gaza during a discussion with Liverpool's Mohamed Salah.

The veteran host of Match of the Day concluded his tenure with the BBC at the end of the 2024-25 season. Initially, he was expected to continue his role for the upcoming 2026 World Cup in North America and lead FA Cup broadcasts. However, following a controversy regarding an Instagram post he made that involved Zionism and an antisemitic trope historically used by Nazis, Lineker decided to withdraw from the BBC entirely.

Acknowledgment of Mistakes

In a statement regarding his departure, Lineker expressed that he recognized the distress he caused and felt that stepping back was the responsible choice. He emphasized that he would never intentionally share anything antisemitic.

Cancellation of Interview with Salah

Lineker's final episode of Match of the Day was filled with tributes celebrating his extensive career. However, a planned interview with Premier League star Mohamed Salah was unexpectedly canceled. Reports suggest that the BBC made this decision out of concern that the topic of Gaza might arise during their conversation.

According to a report from a media outlet, the interview was set to air during Lineker's last weekend but was pulled at the last minute. The BBC clarified that the cancellation was due to the timing of the interview, which was intended to follow Lineker's final Match of the Day.

BBC Leadership's Response

After Lineker's announcement to step back, BBC's Director of Sport, Alex Kay-Jelski, reached out to staff, describing the situation as challenging and emotional for many. He expressed his regret over Lineker's departure, praising him as an exceptional broadcaster and thanking him for his years of dedication.

BBC Director General Tim Davie shared similar sentiments, stating that he supported the decision after reportedly losing patience with the broadcaster's highest-paid presenter. He acknowledged Lineker's mistake and confirmed that they agreed on his stepping back from presenting duties after this season.

Davie remarked that Lineker has been a significant voice in BBC's football coverage for over two decades, contributing to sports journalism and earning respect from fans across the UK and beyond.