Gary Lineker has issued an „unreserved apology” for sharing a social media post that critics say contained antisemitic imagery. The former England footballer and long-standing BBC presenter deleted the Instagram post after learning that it featured an illustration of a rat, an image historically used in antisemitic propaganda.
The post, originally shared by the group Palestine Lobby, was titled „Zionism explained in two minutes” and included a graphic widely interpreted as offensive. Rats have frequently been employed in antisemitic cartoons and Nazi-era propaganda to dehumanise Jews.
In a statement, Lineker said, „On Instagram, I reposted material that I have since learned contained offensive references. I very much regret these references. I would never knowingly share anything antisemitic. It goes against everything I believe in.” He added, „It was an error on my part for which I apologise unreservedly.”
While affirming his support for humanitarian causes, including the situation in Gaza, Lineker acknowledged the importance of responsible public messaging. „How we speak out matters. That image does not reflect my views,” he said.
The Campaign Against Antisemitism (CAA) strongly criticised Lineker’s actions, calling for his dismissal. „The BBC has turned a blind eye for too long,” the CAA said. „It is long past time for him to go, and he must go now.”
Phil Rosenberg, President of the Board of Deputies of British Jews, described the apology as „empty and belated,” noting a pattern of online conduct that has upset the Jewish community. „His use of social media has been unacceptable for too long,” Rosenberg said. „It is high time that the licence-fee payer ceases to be obliged to subsidise and amplify his bile.”
BBC Director-General Tim Davie responded by reminding all BBC personalities of the importance of adhering to the broadcaster’s social media policy. „The BBC’s reputation is held by everyone, and when someone makes a mistake, it costs us,” Davie stated. „We absolutely need people to be exemplars of the BBC values.”
This is not the first time Lineker has courted controversy online. In March 2023, he faced suspension from the BBC for comparing government asylum policies to rhetoric used in 1930s Germany. The incident triggered a revision of BBC guidelines, which now stress that high-profile presenters, even those outside news and current affairs, must maintain impartiality due to their visibility.
Despite announcing his departure from Match of the Day in November 2024, Lineker remains with the BBC for its FA Cup and World Cup coverage. However, this latest controversy has intensified scrutiny over his role at the publicly funded broadcaster, particularly amid heightened concern over rising antisemitism in the UK.
Photo credit: Alamy
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