Gary Lineker bid an emotional farewell on his final Match of the Day after 26 years, officially leaving the BBC. He announced his departure in November, initially planning to cover the FA Cup and World Cup, but left the corporation entirely after apologizing for an antisemitic social media post. Lineker alluded to the controversy at the show's start, saying "it wasn't meant to end this way," before referencing the season's final day.

Pundits Alan Shearer and Micah Richards presented Lineker with a commemorative cap and golden boot. Lineker expressed gratitude for hosting Match of the Day and thanked viewers for their support. He was the main presenter of the BBC's flagship football program from 1999, replacing Des Lynam, and became its highest-paid presenter. Lineker's social media activity led to controversy, including a suspension in 2023 for a post about the government's asylum policy, which led to fellow presenters and pundits supporting him.

After reinstatement, new social media rules were implemented. Earlier in the month, Lineker was criticized for sharing a post about Zionism with an antisemitic image. He apologized, stating he hadn't seen the image and would never knowingly share antisemitic content. Subsequently, his earlier departure was announced. Lineker acknowledged the error and upset caused, deeming his departure a responsible decision. BBC director general Tim Davie thanked Lineker for his significant contribution to football coverage.

Lineker's final episode included an interview with Liverpool manager Arne Slot, who acknowledged Lineker's contributions. The show featured a montage of Lineker's career highlights, including his famous appearance in Leicester City boxer shorts after their 2016 Premier League win. Tributes were paid by Shearer, Richards, Alan Hansen, Ian Wright, Paul Gascgoine, Johan Cruyff, Andrea Bocelli, and Lineker's sons. Pep Guardiola and Shearer praised his work on Match of the Day.

Kelly Cates, Mark Chapman, and Gabby Logan will jointly take over presenting responsibilities from the 2025-26 season. Lineker wished them well, expressing confidence in their abilities.