Gary Lineker has broken his social media silence with a blistering critique of his own employer, the BBC, following their coverage of England's heartbreaking Euro 2024 final defeat.
The Match of the Day host took to X, formerly Twitter, to lambast the broadcaster's controversial decision to omit the national anthem before its coverage of the monumental match. Lineker did not mince his words, declaring the move "utterly disgraceful" in a public post that has since gone viral.
A Controversial Broadcast Decision
The BBC's coverage came under immediate fire from viewers and politicians alike for cutting away before the traditional pre-match performance of 'God Save the King'. This decision was seen by many as a profound lack of patriotism and a snub to the England team moments before the biggest game of their lives.
Lineker, the BBC's highest-paid star and face of their football coverage, clearly shared this sentiment. His public condemnation places him in direct opposition to the editorial choices made by the network he has represented for decades.
Fans and Pundits React
The backlash was swift and severe across social media platforms. Fans expressed their fury, accusing the BBC of an embarrassing misstep at a critical moment of national unity. The controversy overshadowed what was already a devastating 2-1 loss for Gareth Southgate's squad against Spain.
Lineker's decision to publicly call out his employer underscores the depth of feeling surrounding the issue. It marks a rare moment of open dissent from the veteran presenter, who has himself been at the centre of previous impartiality rows with the corporation.
As the dust settles on England's tournament, the conversation has pivoted from the on-pitch action to a heated debate about the role of national broadcasters in supporting home teams on the world stage.
