Gary Lineker is set to conclude his role as the host of Match of the Day at the end of the current season, marking the end of an era. The former England striker, now 63, took over the hosting duties from Des Lynam in 1999 and has been a familiar face for football fans on Saturday nights for 25 years. Throughout his tenure, Lineker has delivered numerous memorable moments while also addressing important issues in the sport. As he prepares to step down, fans and viewers are reflecting on his impactful career, which has included everything from light-hearted antics to significant political commentary. His time on the show has been marked by a blend of humor and seriousness, making him a beloved figure in the world of football broadcasting. As the season draws to a close, many are eager to celebrate Lineker's contributions and the unforgettable moments he has brought to the show.

**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.