Former Match Of The Day presenter Gary Lineker has admitted he would feel "slightly concerned" about the BBC's capacity to afford rights for major tournaments if he were still working in football at the corporation today. Lineker, 65, highlighted the significant cost associated with securing these broadcasting rights.
Speaking to ITV News, Lineker stated his belief that terrestrial broadcasting still has "a place" and that television networks need to continue adapting to the evolving industry. He noted that the current ability of terrestrial channels to afford rights is partly due to rules requiring certain major events, such as World Cup games, to be shown on free-to-air television.
Lineker departed the BBC in May last year following criticism regarding his political opinions expressed on social media. He co-founded the media production company Goalhanger, which was named Britain's fastest-growing private company in June after recording £37.9 million in sales in 2025.