Gary Lineker pictured for first time since Match of the Day exit bombshell

Gary Lineker has been spotted in public for the first time it emerged that he'd be leaving Match of the Day after 25 years.

Former striker Lineker, 62, was seen walking his dog on Tuesday morning outside of his home in Barnes, south London. It was that the TV icon will leave his role as MOTD's lead presenter at the end of the current season.

Lineker will still remain with the until the conclusion of the 2026 , though, hosting their coverage of matches in the United States, Canada and Mexico. Lineker will also continue to be the broadcaster's lead presenter for fixtures during the 2025-26 season.

The BBC themselves have reported the news although there's been no official announcement from their press office or his representatives. A post from BBC Sport's X account on Monday evening read: " will step down as host of Match of the Day at the end of the season."

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Lineker has been at the helm since 1999, replacing the legendary . The 62-year-old was due to be out of contract in May 2025 but has now agreed a new 18-month deal.

As first reported by , Lineker will take a substantial pay cut compared to his current £1.3million contract. But the deal will only see him present Match of the Day for six more months before the leaving the BBC for good in July 2026.

His final bow is set to be hosting their coverage of the World Cup final in East Rutherford, New Jersey.

Get involved! Who should replace Gary Lineker on Match of the Day? Tell us your pick in the .

Attention has already turned to who'll replace Lineker on Match of the Day, with Mark Chapman quickly installed as the firm favourite. Chapman, who already presents on a Sunday and has previously stepped in for Lineker on the flagship Saturday show, is well respected within the BBC and has a strong rapport with its pundits.

The Rochdale-born journalist was given the gig of hosting the BBC's highlights show this season and presents a range of sports programming on BBC Radio 5 Live, including the Monday Night Club and 606. Chapman also presents coverage of the .

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