Gary Lineker reveals why he’s leaving Match of the Day and says it’s ‘right time’ as BBC plans changes

GARY Lineker has revealed why he's leaving Match of the Day and says it's the "right time" - as the BBC is planning changes to the show.

Lineker said hosting Match Of The Day for more than two decades has been "an absolute joy and privilege".

But 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.

The star will step down as host of the BBC's flagship football show at the end of the season.

He will continue to present coverage of the FA Cup in 2025/26 and the World Cup in 2026, the BBC said.

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.

"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."

But the 63-year-old refused to speculate who would be taking his place.

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 has hosted Match Of The Day since taking over from Lynam in 1999.