BBC issue statement as Gary Lineker's Match of the Day future in fresh doubt after 'leaked email'

The BBC have released a statement on the future of Gary Lineker amid a 'leaked' email.

Lineker has presented Match of the Day since 1999 after replacing Des Lynam.

But his existing deal expires at the end of the 2024/25 season, with a new frontrunner emerging to replace the Leicester City legend following the sacking of Jermaine Jenas, who had been primed to take the hosting position before his dismissal.

A recent report suggested Lineker's exit from the BBC could come even sooner as a 'leaked' email has suggested that the corporation are preparing a statement announcing his departure.

However, it now appears a final decision on his future is some way off.

A statement from a BBC 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."

Gary Lineker working for the BBC during Euro 2024. Image: Getty

Lineker's future with the BBC is up in the air as the 63-year-old touched on what could happen next amid his deal coming to an end.

Asked by BBC Breakfast how long he would continue for with the British broadcaster, he replied: "I don't... I don't know!

"It depends how long they want me, I suppose. I love doing it at the moment; I've still got another year left, at least. So we'll have to wait and see what happens. Obviously it's another change in football and television and the rights of the Premier League and stuff like that.

"All of these things will play a part. But I just feel it's been an absolute privilege to have presented it for 25 years now. I must be getting old!"

Lineker, who's currently the BBC's highest-paid presenter, not only presents Match of the Day but also the channel's FA Cup coverage and fronted their broadcast of this summer's Euro 2024.