Gary Lineker, a celebrated figure in both football and broadcasting, approaches his 65th birthday this Sunday. He is notably recognized for his impactful career, which spans more than three decades. Lineker is not only remembered for his athletic prowess but also for his engaging presence on television.
Memorable Moments in Broadcasting
One striking instance from Lineker’s broadcasting career occurred in 2023 during an interview with Erik ten Hag. After Manchester United’s FA Cup victory over Manchester City, Lineker asked Ten Hag, “Do you think this was your last game?” This moment captivated viewers and raised questions about Ten Hag’s future at the club.
Manchester United’s FA Cup Triumph
- Match Date: 2023
- Final Score: Manchester United 2 – 1 Manchester City
- Manager: Erik ten Hag
Ten Hag’s response indicated uncertainty about his future: “For me, this is a project. When I came in, we were a mess; now we are in a better state.” However, following the FA Cup win, Ten Hag’s fortunes declined, leading to his replacement by Ruben Amorim in November 2024.
Continued Success and New Ventures
Despite recent changes in his career, Lineker remains a significant presence in media. After stepping away from his long-standing role on Match of the Day, a position he held for 26 years, Lineker has shifted his focus to new projects. He now hosts a podcast, The Rest is Football, alongside former football stars Alan Shearer and Micah Richards.
Additionally, Lineker is involved in a new ITV show titled The Box. This series is a celebrity challenge program, merging elements from popular formats like I’m a Celebrity… Get Me Out of Here! and SAS: Who Dares Wins.
Acknowledgment of Achievements
Lineker’s contributions to television were recognized when he won the Best TV Presenter award at the National Television Awards (NTAs) in September 2025. This marked an end to Ant and Dec’s 23-year dominance in the category.
Reflecting on life after Match of the Day, Lineker stated, “I’m enjoying having weekends off for the first time in my adult life.” His ongoing commitment to football and media suggests that he remains an influential figure in both realms.
As fans look forward to future updates from Lineker’s career, they can anticipate more engaging content from him, particularly with the launch of The Box next year.
