Former Match of the Day presenter Gary Lineker has declared that it is "impossible" for the BBC to be impartial on every issue, while suggesting that its senior leadership faces undue influence from past governments.
Lineker's Critique of BBC Leadership and Impartiality
In a candid interview on the Bold Politics With Zack Polanski podcast, set for release on New Year's Eve, the 65-year-old broadcaster reflected on his recent high-profile departure from the corporation. Lineker stepped back from his presenting role in May following a dispute over his political commentary on social media.
While affirming his view that the BBC remains the "most trusted news source," Lineker argued that expecting it to never err was unrealistic. He pinpointed issues at the highest levels of the organisation. "I think at the top at the moment there's probably a bit too much influence from previous governments," he stated, urging a review of how major decisions are made.
The Social Media Row and 'Beautiful' Exit
This interview follows Lineker's earlier comments this month where he insisted he should not have been forced out. The controversy centred on an Instagram post he shared about Zionism which included a cartoon of a rat, a symbol historically used as an antisemitic trope.
Lineker, who earns £1.35 million annually from the BBC, issued an unreserved apology at the time, explaining he had simply "missed an emoji" and would never intentionally link any group with a rodent. He believed his apology "should have been enough - but it wasn't."
Reflecting on his exit, however, he described it as "beautiful because everyone supported me." He added, "I think people recognised I did nothing untoward, that I was just factually correct."
A History of Impartiality Clashes and Changing Rules
This was not Lineker's first clash with the BBC over impartiality guidelines. He was temporarily suspended in March 2023 after criticising the government's asylum policy online. He has also been among signatories urging the BBC to rebroadcast a documentary on Gaza.
Lineker highlighted that when he joined social media in 2012, the BBC's strict impartiality rules did not apply to sports presenters. He claimed the goalposts were moved in 2019, but he continued expressing views within what he saw as clear boundaries. "I didn't ever give my political views; never, ever said who I vote for," he asserted.
Regarding the recent resignation of Director-General Tim Davie, linked to impartiality concerns over a Panorama documentary edit, Lineker said he had sent a supportive text. "The only place the BBC is probably a bit partial is the board. There is massive influence and Tim Davie has paid the price," he commented. On the editing incident itself, he suggested it was likely an error rather than malice.
The BBC has been contacted for comment in response to Lineker's latest remarks.
