LONDON — Gary Lineker, the BBC’s highest-paid presenter and a former striker for the England national team, is set to depart from his long-standing position on the iconic soccer program Match of the Day.

Lineker, who has been at the helm of the show since 1999, will conclude his tenure at the end of the current season, with reports indicating that he plans to part ways with the BBC altogether following the conclusion of the 2026 World Cup.

At the age of 63, Lineker reportedly commands an annual salary of 1.35 million pounds (approximately $1.7 million), a figure that has contributed to his prominence within the network.

Despite having attracted attention for his outspoken political opinions, Lineker continues to maintain a robust fan base. In addition to his broadcasting career, he has recently established a successful podcast production company, producing popular shows such as “The Rest is Politics” and “The Rest is Football,” which features co-hosts Alan Shearer and Micah Richards.

As of now, the BBC has not responded to any inquiries regarding Lineker’s departure from the show.