Wayne Lineker, the renowned Ibiza nightlife figure and brother of football legend Gary Lineker, became emotional while sharing a candid conversation with his eldest son about his past partying habits.

A Shocking Family Wake-Up Call

Lineker, celebrated for his Ocean Beach club and Linekers Bars empire, estimates he consumed around 52,000 drinks over 13 years. Now seven months sober, he recounts the moment that profoundly impacted him during a heartfelt office discussion with son Duane, whom he views as a business partner and the more responsible figure in their dynamic.

Duane, tasked with keeping his father in check, delivered a tough message. He stated: “Dad, we love you and we care about you, but we have to stop you picking the girls up from school.” This struck Lineker like a ton of bricks. He had been driving his granddaughters home weekly in his Bentley, but Duane deemed it unsafe due to lingering effects from late nights.

Lineker immediately understood. Even if sober by afternoon pickup time, traces of alcohol or drugs from the previous evening remained in his system. He praised Duane’s decision, noting how difficult the talk must have been.

Another Heartbreaking Son’s Plea

Lineker shared a separate incident with his youngest son, DJ Freddie. While staying at the villa before an early flight to Zante, Freddie heard his father stirring at 5 a.m. Entering the room, he offered a tearful cuddle and pleaded for him not to continue down that path, clearly worried about the health risks from heavy drinking.

These family moments highlighted the toll on his loved ones, prompting Lineker to recognize the urgent need for change.

Embracing Sobriety After Decades

On Good Morning Britain with hosts Susanna Reid and Ed Balls, Lineker explained his commitment to a sober life. After 40 years in the industry, daily drinking had taken its toll. He declared: “Enough was enough.”

Recent Health Struggles

The 63-year-old faced a double bout of pneumonia around Christmas, requiring hospitalization and surgery after the first severe episode. Discharged briefly, a second attack sent him back via ambulance, cared for by son Sean.

Instagram updates revealed extensive scans and tests showed no heart issues but pointed to a weakened immune system, likely tied to quitting alcohol. Lineker expressed gratitude for supporters amid his recovery.