**
From Presenting in Pants to
Political Controversy:
A Look Back at
Gary Lineker’s Match of the Day Career**
With the confirmation of Gary Lineker's departure from the presenter’s chair, we reflect on some of the most memorable moments from his time on Match of the Day.
In the 2015-16
Premier League season, few believed
Leicester City could clinch the title, not even Lineker, a former player for the club and a devoted supporter.
In December 2015, he made a bold promise on social media: if Leicester managed to achieve the unthinkable and win the championship, he would host an episode of Match of the Day in just his underwear. Fast forward to May 2016, and Leicester City indeed pulled off one of the greatest upsets in football history.
True to his word, when the new season kicked off in August 2016, Lineker presented the opening highlights show wearing a pair of baggy white boxer shorts emblazoned with Leicester City branding. His fellow pundits,
Alan Shearer and
Ian Wright, looked on in amusement as Lineker humorously embraced the moment, remaining in his pants for about 30 minutes of the broadcast. This lighthearted gesture showcased his willingness to entertain viewers and poke fun at himself.
As we bid farewell to Lineker's tenure on Match of the Day, his legacy is marked not only by his playful antics but also by his engagement with significant political issues, making him a prominent figure in both sports and social commentary.
Question 1: What notable promise did Gary Lineker make regarding his presentation of Match of the Day?
Gary Lineker promised to present an episode of Match of the Day wearing only his pants if Leicester City won the Premier League title during the 2015-16 season.
Question 2: How did Lineker fulfill his promise after Leicester City won the title?
After Leicester City won the title in May 2016, Gary Lineker presented the opening episode of the next season's Match of the Day in mid-August wearing a pair of Leicester City-branded boxer shorts.
Question 3: What was the reaction of his co-presenters during this episode?
Alan Shearer and Ian Wright, who were in the pundits' chairs, looked on as Lineker humorously presented the show in his pants for about 30 minutes, showcasing his willingness to entertain viewers.
Question 4: What was the significance of Leicester City's title win in the context of the Premier League?
Leicester City's title win in the 2015-16 season was considered one of the most surprising victories in Premier League history, as they were not expected to win the championship.
Question 5: What recent news is mentioned regarding Gary Lineker's career with Match of the Day?
The article mentions that Gary Lineker's departure from the presenter’s chair of Match of the Day has been confirmed by the BBC.