Former British football player and BBC presenter Gary Lineker is set to return as host of ‘Match of the Day’ (Photo Credits: Reuters)
Lineker was criticized by ministers and politicians after comparing the language used in the government’s new asylum policy with that of Nazi Germany of the 1930s.
England football legend Gary Lineker said on Monday he would return to host its flagship ‘Match of the Day’ BBC show, as the broadcaster apologized for days of disruption to its sports coverage due to a Twitter post row. Had asked
The BBC has also announced an independent review of its social media use guidelines following Lineker’s tweets criticizing the government’s immigration policy.
After the former England football team captain and TV personality was asked to step back, many of his colleagues also refused to present their shows in solidarity.
“Everyone recognizes that this has been a difficult period for staff, contributors, presenters and, most importantly, our viewers,” said Tim Davey, director general of the BBC.
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“I apologize for this,” he said, acknowledging the “potential confusion” caused by the gray areas of the BBC’s social media guidance which was introduced in 2020.
“Accordingly, we are announcing a review led by an independent expert reporting to the BBC on its existing social media guidance, with a particular focus on how it affects freelancers outside news and current affairs come into force.”
Lineker said he supported the review announced by the BBC and looked forward to broadcasting back.
“After a rough few days, I’m glad we’ve found a way through this. I want to thank you all for the incredible support, especially my colleagues at BBC Sport, for the remarkable show of solidarity. Football is a team game, but their support was overwhelming,” he said in a tweet.
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“One final thought: no matter how difficult the past few days have been, it cannot be compared to fleeing persecution at home or seeking refuge in a faraway country from war. It is heartwarming to see so many of you empathize with the plight. Touching.”
“We remain primarily a country of tolerant, welcoming and generous people.”
It follows a chaotic few days, which saw football coverage reduced at the BBC over the weekend as pundits, commentators and other staff refused to work in protest against Lineker’s removal from the show.
Lineker was criticized by ministers and politicians after comparing the language used in the government’s new asylum policy with that of Nazi Germany in the 1930s.
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BBC staff are expected to remain neutral on political matters and follow strict social media guidelines, but there is significant debate over how they should apply to staff outside the news.
“Between now and the report Gary will follow editorial guidelines, that’s where we are,” Davey said in reference to the rapprochement with Lineker.
Lineker has hosted ‘Match of the Day’ since 1999 and is the BBC’s highest-paid star.
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(This story has not been edited by News18 staff and is published from a syndicated news agency feed)