Gary Lineker reveals shock at colleague’s solidarity during BBC suspension

Veteran broadcaster Gary Lineker has spoken of his surprise at a significant show of support from a BBC colleague following his temporary removal from the popular football program, Match of the Day. The incident occurred in March 2023 when Lineker, who presented the show from 1999 to 2025, faced backlash for social media remarks concerning government asylum policy.

Social Media Controversy Leads to Suspension

Lineker had described government proposals as “beyond awful” and drew a comparison to language used in 1930s Germany. In response, the BBC announced that Lineker would step back from presenting Match of the Day until an agreement could be reached regarding his social media activity. This decision, however, triggered a strong reaction from numerous BBC sports presenters and pundits.

WhatsApp Message Sparks ‘Wow’ Moment

Reflecting on the episode on The Louis Theroux Podcast, Lineker recounted how he received news of his suspension via social media, noting it was unexpected not to be informed personally. He recalled a prior conversation in a WhatsApp group with fellow presenters Alan Shearer and Ian Wright, where he had expressed a feeling that he might be taken off the show. Wright’s immediate response, conveyed through the same group chat, was a pledge of solidarity: “Well if they do that, I’m not doing it in solidarity. I’m not doing Match of the Day.”

Lineker described this as a “real ‘wow’ moment” because he had not requested such a demonstration of support. The widespread backing from colleagues led to an episode of Match of the Day being broadcast without its usual commentary or punditry.

Resolution and Social Media Guideline Review

Following the disruption, the BBC issued a joint statement from director-general Tim Davie and Lineker, confirming the lifting of his suspension. The statement also announced a review of the BBC’s social media guidelines. “Everyone recognises this has been a difficult period for staff, contributors, presenters and, most importantly, our audiences,” Davie stated. “I apologise for this. The potential confusion caused by the grey areas of the BBC’s social media guidance that was introduced in 2020 is recognised. I want to get matters resolved and our sport content back on air.”

Lineker’s Stance on Remarks

Looking back, Lineker maintained his position on his controversial remarks, stating, “I was totally at ease with what I’d done. I thought it was humanitarian, someone was having a real dig at me and not in a very nice manner. I responded, I thought I was factually correct.”

Lineker ultimately departed Match of the Day at the end of the 2024/25 season. Earlier arrangements for his involvement in FA Cup and World Cup 2026 coverage were also rescinded in May 2025 amid continued scrutiny of his social media posts.

Discussions from The Louis Theroux Podcast are available on Spotify and other podcast platforms.