Gary Lineker steps down from another BBC role after 23 years

The BBC have confirmed Gary Lineker has stepped down from his role as presenter of Sports Personality Of The Year. The news follows Thursday's announcement the presenter will stop hosting Match of The Day at the end of the current Premier League season.

The 63-year-old will remain working with the BBC despite stepping down from roles within the company. Both parties agreed to a contract extension which will cover the World Cup in 2026.

Gary will host BBC Sport’s coverage of the FA Cup next season and continue presenting the Match Of The Day: Top 10 podcast for BBC Sounds. He had hosted last year's Sports Personality Of The Year ceremony with ex-Lionesses defender Alex Scott, and television hosts Gabby Logan and Clare Balding in what was his last role in the long-running event.

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Talking about the departure of Gary, a BBC spokesperson said: “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.”

Following the announcement of his new contract with BBC, the former footballer said: “I’m delighted to continue my long association with BBC Sport and would like to thank all those who made this happen.”

Alex Kay-Jelski, director of BBC Sport, said: “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 said Gary will be "hugely missed" on the show but they are happy he is staying with the BBC to present live football. Match Of The Day 2 presenter Mark Chapman and Football Focus presenter Scott are two of the favourites tapped to replace Lineker on MOTD.