- Gary Lineker has spoken about his increased freedom since leaving his 26-year role as presenter of Match Of The Day at the BBC last May, stating he is “not treading on so many eggshells these days”.
- His departure from the BBC followed significant criticism regarding his political commentary on social media, including a controversial Instagram post.
- Lineker's popular podcast, The Rest Is Football, will become a daily television show on Netflix for the 2026 World Cup, featuring him alongside Micah Richards and Alan Shearer.
- He expressed surprise at the BBC's limited coverage plans for the upcoming World Cup but clarified his new show would complement, not compete with, their live football broadcasts.
- Lineker voiced significant apprehension about the 2026 tournament, particularly regarding the US co-hosting and actions by US President Donald Trump, drawing parallels with past controversial World Cups.
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