Former Match of the Day presenter Gary Lineker could be making a dramatic return to television screens, with reports indicating he's in advanced talks with streaming giant Netflix to front their United States coverage of the 2027 Women's World Cup.
Netflix Deal Could Mark Broadcasting Comeback
The 64-year-old football pundit has been absent from broadcasting since his departure from the BBC in May this year, following a controversial incident involving an anti-Semitism row. However, his time away from screens may be short-lived if negotiations with Netflix prove successful.
According to reports from The Times, Lineker's popular podcast co-hosts Alan Shearer and Micah Richards might also join him in the potential new venture, recreating their successful broadcasting partnership on a global platform.
Netflix has secured the exclusive live streaming rights for the 2027 and 2031 Women's World Cups across the United States, marking a significant move into live sports broadcasting for the platform. Meanwhile, UK viewers will be able to watch the tournament through shared coverage by BBC and ITV.
Controversial BBC Departure
Lineker's potential move to Netflix comes after his abrupt departure from the BBC earlier this year. The former England striker had initially planned to step down from Match of the Day at the end of the 2024/25 Premier League season but intended to remain with the corporation for FA Cup coverage and the 2026 World Cup.
Those plans changed dramatically when Lineker faced significant online backlash after sharing a social media post about Zionism that featured an illustration of a rat - an image historically used as an anti-Semitic slur.
While Lineker quickly clarified that he hadn't seen the illustration before sharing the post and stated he would never consciously repost anti-Semitic content, he acknowledged his error and apologised for the upset caused.
In a statement released at the time, Lineker said: "Football has been at the heart of my life for as long as I can remember – both on the pitch and in the studio. I care deeply about the game, and about the work I've done with the BBC over many years."
He added: "However, I recognise the error and upset that I caused, and reiterate how sorry I am. Stepping back now feels like the responsible course of action."
Recent Career Moves and Future Prospects
The Netflix talks represent the latest development in Lineker's post-BBC career. Last month, he decided not to return for a second season of the Baller League, where he had previously teamed up with Shearer and Richards to manage the Deportrio club in the six-a-side tournament.
Baller League CEO Felix Starck commented on Lineker's decision, noting that participants need to "fall in love with this project to continue because it consumes your time." Starck added that Lineker maintains a busy schedule and that the commitment requires significant dedication.
Despite stepping back from managerial duties, Lineker was spotted supporting his former colleagues at London's Copperbox Arena during the launch of the tournament's second season late last month.
If the Netflix deal proceeds, it would mark a significant new chapter for one of British broadcasting's most recognised football voices, potentially introducing him to American audiences while maintaining his connection to major international football tournaments.
