The English football icon Gary Lineker returns to the “BBC” after his suspension and will again moderate the summary of the Premier League matchday on the British TV station. This was announced by “BBC” general director Tim Davie on Monday.
“Gary is a valuable part of the BBC – and I know what the BBC means to Gary,” Davie said in a statement. “I look forward to him presenting the show next weekend.” Lineker also announced his return. “After a few surreal days, I’m glad we found a way out,” wrote the 62-year-old on Twitter: “I can’t wait to be back in my moderator’s chair on Saturday.”
The controversy surrounding Lineker’s criticism of British asylum policy had made waves in the UK. Politics, society and sport were all involved. A huge uproar followed Lineker’s dismissal as presenter of the highlight show “Match of the Day” (the British equivalent of the sports show).
The broadcast, which otherwise lasted an hour and a half, became a 20-minute clip show last Saturday evening without comments, interviews or analyses. As TV and radio presenters of other programs went on strike in solidarity, the BBC had to apologize for the numerous program changes.