Gary Lineker's departure from the BBC came earlier than planned following controversy over a social media post he shared about Zionism.
The video posted to Lineker's personal Instagram account featured a cartoon depiction of a rat, which has historically been used as an antisemitic symbol.
The post was subsequently removed and Lineker issued a public apology.
However, the damage had been done, with the broadcaster moving to cancel his planned presenting roles despite his attempt to address the situation.
Gary Lineker has secured a new home for his podcast by penning a deal with DAZN. The Rest Is Football will continue under the streaming platform following its removal from BBC archives after Lineker's departure from the broadcaster.
The move provides continuity for the popular football podcast, which had built a significant following during its time with the BBC.
JUST IN: Nick Kyrgios pulls out of Wimbledon in heartfelt statement to fans
DAZN's acquisition of the show represents a notable coup for the sports streaming service as it continues to expand its content offerings beyond live sport coverage.
Plans for the former England international to front the BBC's coverage of the 2026 World Cup and next season's FA Cup were scrapped following the social media controversy. The broadcaster moved swiftly to cancel these high-profile presenting roles despite Lineker's public apology.
READ MORE: Gary Lineker reunites with brother Wayne downing alcohol at son's wedding amid 17-year feud
The Rest Is Football was also removed from the BBC archives shortly after Lineker's departure from the corporation.
The podcast's removal represented a comprehensive severing of ties between the broadcaster and its former flagship presenter, eliminating both future commitments and past content from the BBC's platforms.
LATEST SPORTS NEWS:
- Bruno Fernandes rejects £200 MILLION offer from Saudi giant
- Jack Draper knocked out of French Open in surprise defeat as Britain suffers double blow
- Lewis Hamilton handed brutal assessment of Spanish Grand Prix by ex-Mercedes teammate
Lineker's final BBC appearance was the season-ending episode of Match of the Day, which aired on May 25.
The programme featured a lengthy tribute to the 64-year-old presenter, acknowledging his long-standing contribution to the broadcaster's football coverage.
The episode concluded with a tearful sign-off from Lineker himself, marking the end of his tenure with the corporation.
The emotional farewell provided closure to what had been an abrupt conclusion to his BBC career, with the presenter visibly moved as he bid farewell to viewers after years of fronting the flagship football programme.
from GB News https://ift.tt/TdYtVsu
via IFTTT
Thank you for your message!