Gary Lineker has spoken for the first time since the BBC reached a decision on his Match of the Day future, saying he is "glad we have found a way forward" as he prepares to return to presenting duties.
The broadcaster and former England footballer has been the regular anchor of the Saturday evening show, but was not involved in the most recent broadcast after claiming the Beeb told him to step back. A number of pundits also ruled themselves out of proceedings in solidarity with the 62-year-old, meaning no one presented the show.
Lineker had earlier hit out at the government's announcement of its border policy, describing the move as "beyond awful". He went on to compare the government's language to that used by Germany in the 1930s, prompting the BBC to hold talks with him.
“I am glad that we have found a way forward. I support this review and look forward to getting back on air,” Lineker said in a short statement shared by the BBC Press office along with words from director-general Tim Davie.
Lineker also issued a statement on Twitter. The presenter had not posted on his account since March 9.
"After a surreal few days, I’m delighted that we have navigated a way through this," the former England international began. "I want to thank you all for the incredible support, particularly my colleagues at BBC Sport, for the remarkable show of solidarity. Football is a team game but their backing was overwhelming."
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"I have been presenting sport on the BBC for almost 3 decades and am immeasurably proud to work with the best and fairest broadcaster in the world," he continued. "I cannot wait to get back in the MOTD chair on Saturday.
"A final thought: however difficult the last few days have been, it simply doesn’t compare to having to flee your home from persecution or war to seek refuge in a land far away. It’s heartwarming to have seen the empathy towards their plight from so many of you.
"We remain a country of predominantly tolerant, welcoming and generous people. Thank you."
Lineker also sent a message of thanks to Davie on his social media channel. "Also, I’d like to thank Tim Davie for his understanding during this difficult period," he wrote. "He has an almost impossible job keeping everybody happy, particularly in the area of impartiality. I am delighted that we’ll continue to fight the good fight, together."
“Everyone recognises this has been a difficult period for staff, contributors, presenters and, most importantly, our audiences," Tim Davie's statement read. I apologise for this. The potential confusion caused by the grey areas of the BBC’s social media guidance that was introduced in 2020 is recognised. I want to get matters resolved and our sport content back on air.
“Impartiality is important to the BBC. It is also important to the public. The BBC has a commitment to impartiality in its Charter and a commitment to freedom of expression. That is a difficult balancing act to get right where people are subject to different contracts and on air positions, and with different audience and social media profiles. The BBC’s social media guidance is designed to help manage these sometimes difficult challenges and I am aware there is a need to ensure that the guidance is up to this task. It should be clear, proportionate, and appropriate.
“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 applies to freelancers outside news and current affairs. The BBC and myself are aware that Gary is in favour of such a review.
“Shortly, the BBC will announce who will conduct that review. Whilst this work is undertaken, the BBC’s current social media guidance remains in place.
“Gary is a valued part of the BBC and I know how much the BBC means to Gary, and I look forward to him presenting our coverage this coming weekend.”
