LONDON (AP) – Gary Lineker, the renowned former England soccer player and leading sports broadcaster on the BBC, has issued an “unreserved apology” for reposting an Instagram story associated with Zionism that featured a picture of a rat. The controversy arose when Lineker shared content from the group Palestine Lobby, which was titled "Zionism explained in two minutes" and depicted a rat, an image historically linked to antisemitic propaganda.
In a statement released on Wednesday, the 64-year-old Lineker expressed regret, stating that he had reposted material that he later learned contained "offensive references." He emphasized that he removed the post immediately upon recognizing its problematic nature. "I take full responsibility for this mistake,” Lineker remarked. "I would never knowingly share anything antisemitic. It goes against everything I believe in."
Lineker’s reposting sparked considerable criticism, especially since images of rats have been used as symbols of disease and filth, often directed at Jews in various historical contexts, including by the Nazis in 1930s Germany. The backlash against Lineker illustrates the sensitivity surrounding antisemitic imagery and language, highlighting the responsibility public figures hold in their communications.
The former Tottenham Hotspur and Barcelona striker, known for his significant contributions to both soccer and broadcasting, is set to step down as the main presenter of the BBC's flagship soccer highlights program, "Match of the Day," later this month after more than 25 years in the role. Throughout his career, Lineker has been no stranger to controversy, facing scrutiny for his social media activities in the past. In March 2023, he was temporarily suspended by the BBC following an impartiality dispute related to his comments on the British government's asylum policy.
Additionally, Lineker was among 500 prominent individuals who signed an open letter advocating for the re-broadcast of the documentary "Gaza: How to Survive a War Zone" on the BBC's streaming platform, BBC iPlayer. The film was withdrawn after it was revealed that its young narrator was the son of a Hamas official. In his apology, Lineker acknowledged the importance of addressing humanitarian issues, particularly the ongoing tragedy in Gaza, but also recognized the need for careful communication. “Whilst I strongly believe in the importance of speaking out on humanitarian issues... I also know that how we do so matters,” he noted.
Despite transitioning away from "Match of the Day," Lineker has signed a contract extension to continue hosting the BBC’s coverage of the FA Cup until 2026 and will also cover the upcoming World Cup tournament in North America. As the BBC's highest-paid presenter, Lineker’s role has been significant in shaping sports broadcasting within the organization.
Prior to Lineker's apology, BBC Director-General Tim Davie addressed the situation, asserting that the reputation of the broadcaster is shared among all its employees. He stressed the importance of adhering to BBC values and social media policies, stating, “When someone makes a mistake, it costs us.” In light of the controversy, the Campaign Against Antisemitism has called for Lineker's dismissal, arguing that as a highly paid presenter and a significant figure in the media landscape, his position within the BBC has become untenable. A spokesperson for the organization stated, “Having looked the other way until now, at this point, it is clear that Mr. Lineker’s continued association with the BBC is untenable. He must go.”
As this situation unfolds, Lineker's career and the implications for the BBC's broadcasting standards remain in the spotlight.
