Gary Lineker is rumoured to be on the verge of departing from the BBC earlier than anticipated following discontent among staff over a social media post he shared at the beginning of the week.
The Match of the Day anchor, aged 64, had previously announced this season his intention to relinquish his presenting duties after 26 years. The BBC is set to replace him with three rolling presenters. However, now it seems he may exit the BBC sooner than planned, as per recent revelations.
According to an article by The I, sources suggest Lineker's role has become unsustainable following his Instagram share of a pro-Palestine video, which included an 'anti-Semitic' rat emoji from the Palestine Lobby campaign group.
It has been reported that the details surrounding any potential departure remain unestablished, but the tension regarding the issue is reportedly intensifying, with calls mounting for the organisation to respond.
Lineker subsequently expressed regret through a public statement, stating: "On Instagram I reposted material which I have since learned contained offensive references. I very much regret these references. I would never knowingly share anything antisemitic. It goes against everything I believe in.
"The post was removed as soon as I became aware of the issue. Whilst I strongly believe in the importance of speaking out on humanitarian issues, including the tragedy unfolding in Gaza, I also know that how we do so matters."
Gary Lineker on Match of the Day
(Image: BBC)
"I take full responsibility for this mistake. That image does not reflect my views. It was an error on my part for which I apologise unreservedly."
Before Lineker apologized, The Telegraph revealed that some BBC staff members were outraged over the BBC's decision not to sack Lineker despite his "repeated offensiveness to Jewish people". An anonymous staff member said: "It is quite simply disgusting that the BBC has not kicked Lineker out.
"His repeated offensiveness to Jewish people has clearly brought the BBC into disrepute. The interpretation of Zionism he has shared is anti-Semitic and the fact that the BBC thinks it's acceptable is deeply upsetting to its Jewish staff, myself included."