Gary Lineker Jumps to ITV for World Cup! ⚽ A Shock Return!
Gary Lineker Jumps to ITV for World Cup! ⚽ A Shock Return!
Football legend Gary Lineker makes his first terrestrial TV appearance in over a year on ITV's World Cup coverage! Don't miss this shock return! #WorldCup #Lineker
Gary Lineker, a legendary figure in sports broadcasting, is set to make a surprising return to terrestrial television this Saturday, appearing as a special guest on ITV's World Cup coverage. This marks his first appearance on a major UK channel since his departure from the BBC 13 months ago.
The former "Match of the Day" presenter will join ITV's studio in Brooklyn, New York, for the Germany versus Côte d’Ivoire match. Lineker is currently in New York recording daily episodes of "The Rest is Football" podcast, which is exclusively shown on Netflix, making this a special one-off arrangement.
This move is considered a significant win for ITV. The broadcaster has already taken an early lead in the World Cup ratings battle against the BBC, capturing four of the five highest viewing figures in the tournament's opening week. Securing Lineker's appearance further solidifies their position.
Lineker's history with the BBC is extensive, having presented six World Cups during his 26-year tenure – more than any other BBC broadcaster. However, he left the corporation in 2025 following repeated clashes with executives over his use of social media and alleged breaches of editorial guidelines. He has also been openly critical of the BBC's current World Cup coverage, particularly its decision to anchor operations from Salford. His return to mainstream TV via ITV will undoubtedly fuel further discussions about the ongoing rivalry between the two broadcasting giants and his own standing in the football world.
