The corporation’s highest-paid star was unable to save his job after he shared an Instagram post about Zionism that included a drawing of a rat, historically used as an antisemitic insult.
His exit was the result of tense discussions with BBC bosses, amid fears that the 64-year-old’s departure could lead to a walkout ahead of Saturday’s FA Cup Final if he simply left without an agreement, according to insiders.
There were calls for Lineker to be suspended immediately, despite the presenter’s apology and statement that he would never consciously share anything antisemitic. The Prime Minister’s official spokesman said the social media post was “unacceptable” and that “it’s right that he’s apologised”.
BBC staff angry at ‘hero’s welcome’
However, some staff are angry that Director-General Tim Davie hailed Lineker as “a defining voice in football coverage for the BBC” in the departure statement but made no mention of antisemitism or the offence caused to Jewish employees.
Some have compared his departure to a football manager who left “by mutual consent”.
Danny Cohen, the former BBC director of Television, said: “The BBC have made the right decision to part ways with Gary Lineker, but he should not be allowed a final swansong this weekend (presenting Match of the Day). And why the BBC’s statement does not even mention antisemitism is hard to understand.”
The i Paper understands that senior BBC figures, including Head of Sport Alex Kay-Jelski, who is Jewish, have held discussions with staff to discuss their concerns.
“It is sad to be saying goodbye to such a brilliant broadcaster and I also want to thank Gary for his years of service. As ever, if you have questions, you know where I am.”
Gary Lineker outside his home in London after announcing he is leaving the BBC prematurely (PA)An insider with knowledge of the discussions between Lineker and management said: “2023 did not go well. If this went wrong there was a possibility that the FA Cup Final enjoyed by millions of viewers could have been threatened.”
A recent BBC workplace culture review, endorsed by Davie, had said there could no longer be “untouchable” figures whose actions tarnish the BBC’s wider reputation.
“The departure announcement would be held until after the FA Cup Final and be by mutual agreement. Gary would present his final Match of the Day next Sunday and there would be no walk-out this time. Getting the right outcome was the most important thing.”
BBC Director-General Tim Davie praised Lineker’s career but said he was leaving the BBC after this weekend’s Match of the Day (Photo: Hannah McKay/Reuters)
Lineker’s waning support
Insiders said recent interviews given by Lineker, in which he said the BBC should not be “impartial” about Gaza and disparaged Kay-Jelski – who plans to revamp MoTD – saying he had “no television experience” had cost the star support among colleagues.
Lineker’s criticism of the BBC’s impartiality rules in a prime-time interview with Amol Rajan was particularly poorly received by executives, the figure said.
Lineker has said he would focus on his highly successful Goalhanger podcast production business, when he leaves the BBC.
Jane Lush, ex-Controller of BBC Entertainment and a former BAFTA Chair, told The i Paper: “No person, however popular, is bigger or more important than the BBC. I say this as the person who personally fired Angus Deayton from Have I Got News For You.
“The lesson the BBC should learn is that they cannot allow anyone – however well-known or influential – to damage their reputation in this way again.”
Representatives for Lineker were approach for comment. The BBC declined to add anything to the departure statement.
Read More Details
Finally We wish PressBee provided you with enough information of ( BBC bosses feared Lineker exit could spark FA Cup Final pundit walkout )
Also on site :