A BBC host took a pot shot at Gary Lineker as the broadcaster led its Politics Live coverage on his exit from Match of the Day.
On Tuesday, the BBC confirmed Lineker will step down from hosting its flagship football show at the end of this season after 25 years in the job.
BBC News reported the 63-year-old was open to staying on at MOTD but was not offered a new deal for the show.
Politics Live led with the news on Tuesday afternoon, and host Adam Fleming used the opportunity to take a shot at Lineker.
Opening the show, the Scottish BBC host said: “I reckon we will not be having a whip round for the leaving present for Gary Lineker here at the BBC because he's paid £1.3 million a year so he can buy his own leaving present, thank you very much.”
Lineker will, however, remain with the broadcaster after both parties agreed in principle to a contract extension through to the 2026 World Cup.
He will also host BBC Sport’s coverage of the FA Cup in the 2025-26 season, continue with the MOTD Top Ten podcast and the BBC will also host The Rest is Football podcast, featuring Lineker, on BBC Sounds.
Lineker said: “I’m delighted to continue my long association with BBC Sport and would like to thank all those who made this happen.”
Alex Kay-Jelski, director of BBC Sport, said: “Gary is a world-class presenter, and we’re delighted that he’ll lead our coverage of the next World Cup and continue to lead our live coverage of the FA Cup.
“After 25 seasons Gary is stepping down from MOTD. We want to thank him for everything he has done for the show, which continues to attract millions of viewers each week. He’ll be hugely missed on the show but we’re so happy he is staying with the BBC to present live football.”
Match of the Day remains a Saturday staple, attracting 33 million viewers last season across the Premier League and FA Cup.
Bookmakers’ favourites to replace the retired England forward include Mark Chapman, the regular Match Of The Day 2 presenter, and former professional footballer Alex Scott.
