Gary Lineker addresses 'real reason' he is quitting BBC Match of the Day

Gary Lineker has broken his silence over the REAL reason he is quitting BBC Match of the Day. The BBC MOTD legend says it is the "right time" after renegotiating his contract with the broadcaster and broadcasting giant earlier this week.

He said it is "the right time" for him to exit and "someone else to take the helm" as the BBC look to make changes to the programme. Speaking on The Rest is Football, Lineker said: "It has been an absolute joy and privilege to present such an iconic show for the BBC, but all things have to come to an end.

"It came at a point where really the BBC and Match Of The Day, they've got the rights for another three years. The cycle starts from next season so it felt like if I just do one more year it would be a bit weird. I feel this is now the right time.

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"I think the next contract they're looking to do Match Of The Day slightly differently." Lineker added: "So I think it makes sense for someone else to take the helm." He said: "Obviously I don't know who it'll be, and I would never tell publicly my preference.

"I don't think that'd be the right thing to do - but whoever it is, I would say be yourself. I had to fill the ginormous shoes of certain Des Lynam. I would say just be yourself and enjoy it. It's a wonderful programme to be a part of. It was brilliant before I took over, and it will be brilliant after I leave."

Lineker will continue to present live football on the BBC until after the 2026 World Cup. It follows BBC News reports that the former Leicester City footballer was open to staying on at MOTD but was not offered a new deal.