BBC issue statement on Gary Lineker's Match of the Day exit as email 'leaked'

BBC have denied that they are about to announce Gary Lineker's MOTD departure

The BBC has firmly stated they have "nothing to announce" concerning the future of Gary Lineker with Match of the Day, despite swirling rumours that he might be on his way out. The former England striker, who has been at the helm of the beloved Premier League highlights programme since 1999, succeeding Des Lynam, is approaching the end of his current contract in the 2024-25 season.

Speculation has been rife about his potential early exit, fuelled by a leaked email hinting at an impending statement from the BBC, with director of sport Alex Kay-Jelski reportedly leading the announcement.

However, it seems a definitive resolution is not yet on the horizon. A BBC spokesperson clarified: "We have nothing to announce, and we have not agreed next steps with regard to his contract. He is on contract until the end of the season."

Lineker himself has teased some insights into his plans. When probed by BBC Breakfast about his tenure's length, the 63 year old sports presenter confessed: "I don't... I don't know! " He elaborated, "It depends how long they want me, I suppose. I love doing it at the moment; I've still got another year left, at least. So we'll have to wait and see what happens. Obviously it's another change in football and television and the rights of the Premier League and stuff like that."

He further reflected on his career, saying, "All of these things will play a part. But I just feel it's been an absolute privilege to have presented it for 25 years now. I must be getting old! ", reports the Mirror.

In a candid discussion with The Independent, he reaffirmed his contentment with his ongoing tenure at Match Of The Day. He remarked: "Match Of The Day is such an iconic show, 60 years is such a long time and I have presented it for 25 of those years.."

Adding further commentary about other ventures, he declared, "Podcast-wise, things have really exceeded our expectations but, at the same time, I love being part of Match Of The Day. I love working for the BBC."

Reflecting on the broadcaster itself, he continued, "I know it has its issues and it has its troubles but I think it's brilliant. I think sometimes we don't shout about how good we are at the BBC and what we offer."

As speculation mounts regarding his potential successor, former Tottenham Hotspur midfielder Jermaine Jenas had been considered a favourite before his departure from the BBC. Now, Mark Chapman, a regular face on Match Of The Day 2, is seemingly leading the odds to take up the mantle should Lineker opt to step away in the foreseeable future.