Gary Lineker, a renowned sports pundit, recently bid farewell to his role as presenter of Match of the Day after an impressive 26-year tenure. His departure was marked by a final episode aired last month, which he hosted alongside pundits Micah Richards and Alan Shearer. The trio also collaborates on the popular podcast "The Rest Is Football".
Prior to his exit, it was widely reported that Lineker was scheduled to interview Liverpool player Mohamed Salah. However, this much-anticipated interview never materialized. Rumors began circulating that BBC executives had cancelled the interview due to concerns about potential political discussions. Salah has been vocal in expressing support for Palestinians living in Gaza and Lineker has also made clear his stance on this issue. Given these circumstances, some speculated that BBC bosses feared the ongoing war would naturally surface during their conversation.
This led to suggestions that they decided to 'axe' the interview rather than risk possible editorial issues or face another controversy following a recent storm they had just weathered.
Real reason for cancellation
However, contrary to these speculations, a spokesperson from BBC clarified that politics had nothing do with cancelling this high-profile interview. Speaking with Metro News, they stated unequivocally.
A BBC source revealed:
"The only reason the interview was cancelled was because it was planned to air after Gary’s last match of the day."
This statement suggests timing issues were at play rather than any apprehension about political discussions.
A source reportedly told The Sun earlier:
"The plan was for the interview to be shown across the BBC over Gary’s final Match of Day weekend... But out of nowhere it got cancelled."
It appears Director of Sport Alex Kay-Jelski made this decision, having taken over the role from Barbara Slater in April last year.
Lineker's legacy at BBC
Despite the controversy surrounding his final days at BBC, it is worth noting that Lineker was well-liked among his co-stars. A source previously told The Sun about this positive rapport ahead of his departure.
While there were initial speculations about political concerns leading to the cancellation of Gary Lineker’s final interview with Mohamed Salah, it has been clarified by BBC that timing was the primary factor behind this decision.
