Gary Lineker releases statement as BBC confirm Match of the Day exit

The BBC have confirmed that Gary Lineker will quit Match of the Day at the end of this season.

The broadcaster's highest-paid employee has spearheaded the nation's flagship football highlights show since 1999. But this campaign will be his last on MOTD, as Lineker is set to take a substantial pay cut and dramatically slash his TV duties as part of a newly-agreed 18-month contract extension.

The former England international, 63, will anchor next season's FA Cup coverage on the BBC as well as the 2026 World Cup, which is being held in Canada, Mexico and the USA. Lineker will step down for good thereafter.

Speaking on his contract extension, Lineker said: "I’m delighted to continue my long association with BBC Sport and would like to thank all those who made this happen."

Meanwhile the BBC's Director of Sport, Alex Kay-Jelski, confirmed Lineker's upcoming departure. "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," he said.

"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."

The extended contract agreement was reportedly reached after six weeks of negotiations, and amid rumoured friction between Lineker and Kay-Jelski.

Though Lineker is stepping down from MOTD, he will continue on popular BBC podcasts MOTD Top Ten and The Rest is Football.

Attention has already turned towards who could take Lineker's place on MOTD. Alex Scott and Micah Richards are the leading former footballer candidates, having both enjoyed successful media careers since retiring.

Broadcasting veterans Mark Chapman, Gabby Logan and Dan Walker are also in the frame, with the BBC reportedly planning to 'shake things up' once Lineker has made way.

Part of the BBC statement added: "Match of the Day remains part of the staple diet of football fans who still get a huge buzz from hearing that iconic theme tune on a Saturday night.

"The show continually evolves for changing viewing habits bringing its unique and unmatched analysis and commentary across all platforms. Future plans for Match of the Day will be announced in due course."