Inside the life of Gary Lineker: Match of the Day statement, BBC salary and huge net worth

Gary Lineker could be on his way out as the Match of the Day host, with the BBC reportedly considering a change in direction

Gary Lineker faces a somewhat uncertain future as theMatch of the Day host, with the BBC reportedly contemplating his departure. A supposedly 'leaked' email hints at internal discussions within the broadcasting company about the future of their highest-paid star.

Addressing the speculation, the BBC issued an official statement. A spokesperson said: "We have nothing to announce, and we have not agreed next steps with regard to his contract. He is on contract until the end of the season."

When approached for comments about the alleged 'leaked' email near his home in Barnes, Lineker didn't mince words with a Mail journalist. As quoted by the Wales Online, he said: "'F*** off, I won't talk to you. Go away."

While the dust-up adds fuel to the fire regarding his stay, which may conclude next summer after a remarkable 25 years, Lineker isn't likely to fret over job opportunities. Despite a salary cut from the BBC from his earlier £1.75m remuneration, the former Tottenham Hotspur striker has maintained his wealth growth.

Though his illustrious career saw him clinch titles with top clubs like Barcelona, it's his other ventures that have padded out a net worth pegged at approximately £30m – even three years after his last advert for Walker's crisps.

Lineker has arguably achieved even greater success off the pitch. His broadcasting skills have been in high demand by networks such as BT Sport (now TNT Sports), NBC and Al Jazeera, contributing significantly to his wealth.

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Starting from humble beginnings as Des Lynam's successor in 1999, Lineker has held one of the BBC's top spots for over two decades. According to the BBC's 2024 figures, he earns a staggering £1.35m per year, making him one of the highest-paid football pundits.

There are rumours that he might consider reducing his salary to £1m annually to secure a new contract, but this is yet to be confirmed. Currently, Lineker earns nearly half a million more than his nearest rival, Zoe Ball, despite her longer tenure at the BBC.

To put Lineker's earnings into perspective, the BBC could afford to hire Alan Shearer - who earned £380,000 last tax year - three times over and still have money left to bring in Louis Theroux for some extra sparkle.

The BBC's latest statement didn't give much away about Lineker's future on MOTD, but it's interesting to note the focus on his contract running until the end of the season. Remarks like these can often hint at attempts to extend contracts or commend the working relationship between the two parties, but there was no such mention this time.

It remains to be seen if Lineker will have the opportunity to decide whether he extends his tenure. The host has previously expressed that he would continue in his most renowned role as long as the company wants him, but it's possible the situation has changed.

Should he depart, the BBC has a wealth of potential replacements lined up. Mark Chapman, Alex Scott, Gabby Logan, Jason Mohammad and Kelly Somers are some of the seasoned hosts who could step in once he steps down.

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