Gary Lineker is to step down as host of Match of the Day and later quit the BBC entirely after a quarter of a century at the helm of the flagship football programme, according to reports.
BBC News has reported the broadcaster will step down as presenter of the show at the end of this season, with the BBC set to make the official announcement on Tuesday.
The Sun also reported on Monday that Mr Lineker, 63, will leave the corporation after leading its coverage of the 2026 World Cup in the USA, Mexico and Canada.
The BBC press office declined to comment.
It comes following speculation over the 63-year-old’s future at the BBC after he reportedly entered negotiations over a new contract with the broadcaster last month.
The former England striker took over as host of Match of the Day in 1999, having started as a presenter on BBC Radio Five Live and Grandstand.
He has become one of the BBC’s most well-known stars as well as its highest paid, out of those whose salaries are declared, earning more than £1.3 million per year.
More follows on this breaking news story...
