Gary Lineker snipes at ‘haters’ after signing new BBC deal with pay cut

Gary Lineker TEAMtalk

Match of the Day presenter Gary Lineker has been described as “the outstanding football presenter of his time” after signing a new contract that will keep him at the BBC until 2025.

Lineker, 59, admitted he was excited at the prospect of five more years with the broadcaster, despite taking a 23% pay cut.

The former England striker will continue to host the BBC’s flagship show Match of the Day.

He will also front the BBC’s FA Cup coverage, major football tournaments and BBC Sports Personality of the Year.

“I love working with the BBC, and am very proud to continue to be a part of their outstanding football team,” said Lineker, 59.

“I’m looking forward to the next five years – with a European Championship and World Cup on the horizon, it’s exciting times for me and the team.”

Philip Bernie, BBC Head of TV Sport, added: “Gary is the outstanding football presenter of his time. The BBC is extremely pleased to have him leading our coverage so exceptionally for another five years.”

Lineker also responded on Twitter to the BBC’s press release with the comment: “Oh dear. Thoughts are with the haters at this difficult time.”

Lineker was previously understood to be on a salary of £1.75m, so his new wage stands at around £1.35m per annum.

 

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