Gary Lineker, the renowned football pundit, is set to grace our screens once again as he leads the BBC’s live coverage of the FA Cup clash between Arsenal and Manchester United this Sunday. After more than 25 years as the face of Match of the Day, Lineker has decided to bid farewell to his role at the end of the current season and will be exiting the BBC entirely after the 2026 World Cup. Throughout his tenure, Lineker has been part of some iconic moments, including presenting the show in his underwear following Leicester City’s unexpected Premier League triumph. However, it’s not just Lineker’s professional life that has caught the attention of the public, his personal life has also been under the spotlight.
Despite retiring from professional football before the financial boom of the Premier League, Lineker has amassed a staggering net worth primarily through his television work. With a reported net worth of around £30 million, Lineker has been one of the highest earners at the BBC, with an annual salary between £1.3 million and £1.35 million for the year 2023/2024. Aside from his financial success, Lineker’s love life has also captivated audiences. From his marriage to Michelle Cockayne with whom he shares four sons, to his relationship with actress and model Danielle Bux, Lineker’s romantic endeavours have not been devoid of drama.
Lineker and Bux tied the knot in 2009 but went their separate ways in 2016, reportedly due to differences regarding having more children. Despite their divorce, Lineker and Bux have maintained an amicable relationship, with Lineker even joining Bux and her family for dinners in Los Angeles where she resides with her husband and daughter. In a candid revelation, Lineker disclosed his current single status but expressed contentment with his life, highlighting the importance of amicable relationships post-divorce. Recently, Lineker was spotted with Jemima Goldsmith, sparking speculation, which was promptly dismissed.
In addition to his romantic affairs, Lineker’s relationship with his brother Wayne has also been a subject of interest. The once-close siblings had a falling out, with Wayne attributing it to Lineker’s marriage to Bux. Following years of strained communication, the brothers have gradually reconciled, with Wayne expressing admiration for Lineker’s success and acknowledging the importance of their bond. The duo’s journey from estrangement to reconciliation reflects the complexities of familial relationships and the significance of open communication.
As Lineker prepares to conclude his illustrious career at the BBC, his legacy extends beyond his on-screen achievements to his personal resilience and capacity for growth. Through highs and lows, Lineker has navigated the complexities of fame and family with grace, exemplifying a commitment to self-discovery and evolution. As football fans anticipate Lineker’s final moments on Match of the Day, his multifaceted persona continues to intrigue and inspire audiences, reminding us of the profound impact of authenticity and perseverance in both professional and personal spheres.