Gary Lineker bid farewell to Match of the Day after 26 years, marking his official departure from the BBC. The announcement of his leaving the football show at the end of the Premier League season came in November. Initially, he was to continue covering the FA Cup and World Cup, but his exit was accelerated following an apology for sharing an antisemitic social media post.

Lineker began his final show with a possible reference to the controversy, stating, "it wasn’t meant to end this way," which he then related to the season's final day. At the show's conclusion, Alan Shearer and Micah Richards presented Lineker with a commemorative cap and golden boot.

Lineker reflected on his tenure: "It’s been an absolute privilege to have hosted Match of the Day for a quarter of a century. It’s been utterly joyous." He expressed gratitude to the viewers for their support over the years, acknowledging the show's occasional scheduling conflicts for some teams.

Lineker, who replaced Des Lynam in 1999, became the BBC’s highest-paid presenter. His social media activity led to controversy. In 2023, he was suspended for a post about the government’s asylum policy, prompting widespread support from BBC Sport colleagues. Following reinstatement, the BBC implemented new social media guidelines for presenters.

Earlier this month, Lineker faced criticism for sharing a social media post about Zionism that included an antisemitic image. Although he apologized, his departure was expedited. In a statement, Lineker acknowledged his error and the upset caused, deeming his departure as "the responsible course of action." Tim Davie, BBC director general, thanked Lineker for his contributions and confirmed his departure.

During his final episode, Lineker interviewed Liverpool manager Arne Slot, who praised him as a "great presenter." The show featured a montage of Lineker’s goals and highlights from his time on Match of the Day, including his memorable appearance in Leicester City boxer shorts after their 2016 Premier League win.

Shearer and Richards presented a tribute montage featuring messages from figures like Alan Hansen, Ian Wright, Paul Gascoigne, Johan Cruyff, Andrea Bocelli, and Lineker’s sons. Pep Guardiola and Shearer lauded Lineker’s contributions to the show.

Kelly Cates, Mark Chapman, and Gabby Logan are set to take over Match of the Day presenting duties starting in the 2025-26 season. Lineker extended his best wishes to his successors, expressing confidence in their abilities.

Lineker’s final show occurred after he shared a social media post from the Palestine Lobby group titled: "Zionism explained in two minutes," which contained an antisemitic image. He apologized for sharing it, stating he was unaware of the reference and reaffirmed his commitment to speaking out on humanitarian issues.

During the broadcast, Lineker didn't directly address the circumstances of his departure, but he did quip, "It wasn't meant to end this way." He thanked his colleagues, viewers, and those behind the scenes, and wished his replacements well. Gabby Logan, Mark Chapman, and Kelly Cates are slated to take on presenting duties for the 2025-26 campaign.

At the end of the show, Lineker was visibly emotional after a montage of messages from colleagues and figures in the football world. He signed off by saying, "It has been so special, and I am sorry that your team was always on last. Time to say goodbye. Goodbye."