Who is Gary Lineker?
Gary Lineker is a retired English footballer and renowned sports broadcaster, celebrated for his prolific goal-scoring career and his long-standing role as the host of the BBC’s “Match of the Day.” Born on November 30, 1960, in Leicester, England, Lineker is widely regarded as one of England’s greatest strikers. He holds the record for the most goals scored by an English player in FIFA World Cup finals, totaling ten.
Early Life and Education
Gary Winston Lineker was born on November 30, 1960, in Leicester, England, to parents Barry and Margaret Lineker. His early years were marked by an innate love for sports, particularly football. Growing up in Leicester, Gary was introduced to football at a young age, with his father, a fervent football fan, nurturing his interest in the sport. However, it was not just football that attracted Lineker; he also enjoyed playing cricket and running, showcasing a natural athleticism in multiple sports.
Lineker attended Beauchamp Grammar School, where he excelled academically and in sports. It was at school that his talent for football truly began to emerge. While his academics were important, it was clear that his passion lay on the football pitch. His family was supportive of his academic endeavors but also recognized his growing potential in football.
At the age of 16, Lineker joined the youth academy of his hometown club, Leicester City, which marked the beginning of his professional football journey. His early education in football provided him with a solid foundation in the game, learning technical skills and discipline that would later define his career. During his time at Leicester City, Lineker developed an understanding of the game and became a prolific goal scorer for the youth team. His excellent performances caught the attention of the senior team’s coaches, and he was soon offered a professional contract with Leicester City.
Personal Life
Gary Lineker’s personal life has been just as notable as his football career. He has been an open and outspoken figure, not just about his football but also about his social and political views. He is widely known for his philanthropy and support for various charitable causes. Lineker has been involved with major charity campaigns such as Comic Relief and Age UK, where he has used his fame to raise awareness and funds for various causes. He is also a strong advocate for human rights, particularly in his opposition to racism and inequality, which he frequently addresses on his social media platforms.
Gary Lineker is also known for his love of family and has been married twice. He has four sons, whom he shares with his two ex-wives. Despite his busy career and public life, Lineker has remained close to his children and frequently shares moments from his personal life on social media, including family vacations and events. His relationships have occasionally been under public scrutiny, but Lineker has maintained a private demeanor when it comes to family matters, choosing to prioritize their well-being above all else.
While Gary Lineker is often associated with football and broadcasting, his life off the field is also filled with passions for music, travel, and good food. He is often spotted attending high-profile events and has developed friendships with other influential figures outside of football, including celebrities, politicians, and activists.
Family
Gary Lineker’s family has been a constant source of support throughout his life and career. He was raised by his father, Barry Lineker, who was a football enthusiast, and his mother, Margaret Lineker. His family played an essential role in shaping his character and love for sports. Lineker’s father, Barry, was particularly instrumental in encouraging his passion for football. Barry himself was an avid Leicester City supporter and introduced his son to the world of football.
Gary Lineker comes from a family of sports enthusiasts, which only fueled his early interest in football. His siblings have kept a relatively low profile, but his connection to his family, especially his parents, remains strong. Over the years, Lineker has shown his gratitude for the values instilled in him by his family, including the importance of hard work, humility, and respect.
When it comes to his own children, Lineker has always emphasized the importance of family in his life. Despite his celebrity status, Lineker is very much a family man. He shares his four sons—George, Harry, Tobias, and Angus—between his two marriages. Lineker’s relationships with his children are grounded in love and mutual respect, and he often posts heartfelt messages for them on social media. His bond with his children remains one of the most important aspects of his life, and they are often seen supporting their father at football events and charity functions.
Detailed Bio Table
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Gary Winston Lineker |
| Date of Birth | November 30, 1960 |
| Place of Birth | Leicester, England |
| Height | 5 feet 11 inches (180 cm) |
| Parents’ Names | Barry Lineker and Margaret Lineker |
| Net Worth (2025) | Estimated at £30 million (approximately $35 million) |
Career
Gary Lineker’s career as a footballer began when he joined Leicester City’s youth academy at the age of 16. His remarkable skill on the ball and natural ability to score goals quickly gained attention. He made his senior debut for Leicester City in 1978, and by 1985, Lineker had established himself as one of England’s most promising young strikers. His breakthrough came during the 1984-85 season when he finished as the top scorer for the club and attracted interest from bigger clubs.
Leicester City and Early Career
Lineker’s time at Leicester City was the foundation of his career. His performance was stellar, earning him a transfer to Everton in 1985, where he continued his rise to prominence. At Everton, he further cemented his reputation as one of England’s best strikers, scoring consistently and contributing to the club’s success.
Barcelona and European Glory
In 1986, Lineker made a high-profile move to Barcelona, joining the Spanish giants for a substantial transfer fee. His time at Barcelona was marked by mixed fortunes; however, he was able to demonstrate his technical ability and adaptability in a foreign league. Despite not winning any major league titles, Lineker’s tenure at Barcelona allowed him to gain valuable international experience and increase his reputation on the world stage.
Tottenham Hotspur and Golden Years
After his stint in Spain, Lineker returned to England in 1989, signing with Tottenham Hotspur. This move marked the peak of Lineker’s career in the English Premier League. At Tottenham, he enjoyed some of his most productive years, finishing as the team’s top scorer in multiple seasons and winning several individual accolades, including the PFA Player of the Year Award in 1991. His performances during this period solidified his place as one of the best English strikers of his generation.
Nagoya Grampus Eight and Retirement
In 1992, Lineker made the decision to leave English football and move to Japan to join Nagoya Grampus Eight, where he played for two seasons before retiring in 1994. His time in Japan was relatively short, but it allowed him to further enrich his career while living in a completely different footballing environment.
International Career
Throughout his career, Lineker was a consistent performer for the England national team. He made 80 appearances for his country and scored 48 goals, making him one of the top goal scorers in England’s history. Lineker’s most significant achievement on the international stage came in the 1986 FIFA World Cup, where he won the Golden Boot as the tournament’s top scorer. He also represented England in the 1990 World Cup, where England finished in fourth place.
Lineker’s international career was not without controversy, but his goal-scoring prowess and leadership qualities helped him become a beloved figure among English fans. His legacy with the national team remains one of pride and respect.
Broadcasting Career
After retiring from football, Lineker transitioned into a successful career in sports broadcasting. He became the host of BBC’s iconic “Match of the Day,” a role he held for over two decades. His witty and insightful commentary, coupled with his experience as a top footballer, made him the perfect figure to lead one of the most popular football shows in the UK.
Lineker’s broadcasting career also expanded to include hosting duties for other major football events, such as the FIFA World Cup, UEFA Champions League, and the Olympic Games. His articulate and engaging style of presentation earned him widespread recognition and cemented his status as one of the most respected figures in British television.
In addition to his television work, Lineker has ventured into podcasting, where he discusses football topics with other experts and former players, further solidifying his legacy as a football icon. His career both as a player and a broadcaster has left an indelible mark on the football world, and he continues to be a prominent figure in the sport today.
Gary Lineker Career Table
| Club | Years | Appearances | Goals | Notable Achievements |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Leicester City | 1978–1985 | 194 | 95 | Promising young talent, established himself as a top scorer |
| Everton | 1985–1986 | 41 | 30 | Top scorer, helped the team to victory in the 1985 FA Cup |
| Barcelona | 1986–1989 | 103 | 42 | Played in La Liga, UEFA Cup Winners’ Cup winner |
| Tottenham Hotspur | 1989–1992 | 105 | 80 | Premier League top scorer, PFA Player of the Year (1991) |
| Nagoya Grampus Eight | 1992–1994 | 57 | 22 | Finished career in Japan, brought attention to J.League |
Latest News
As of November 2024, Gary Lineker announced his decision to leave the BBC after a distinguished 25-year tenure. He will depart from hosting “Match of the Day” at the end of the current season but plans to continue his commentary roles for the FA Cup until the 2025-2026 season and the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Height and Physical Appearance
Standing at 5 feet 11 inches (180 cm), Gary Lineker possesses a lean and athletic build, characteristic of his playing days as a forward. His appearance has remained relatively consistent over the years, with short-cropped hair and a clean-shaven look.
Social Media Accounts Table
| Platform | Username | Official Link |
|---|---|---|
| @GaryLineker | https://twitter.com/GaryLineker | |
| @garylineker | https://www.instagram.com/garylineker/ | |
| Gary Lineker | https://www.facebook.com/GaryLineker/ |
Net Worth as of 2025
Gary Lineker’s net worth is estimated to be around £30 million (approximately $35 million) as of 2025. This substantial wealth has been accumulated through his successful football career, lucrative broadcasting contracts, and various endorsement deals.
FAQS
How rich is Gary Lineker?
As of 2025, Gary Lineker’s net worth is estimated to be around £30 million (approximately $35 million). His wealth comes from his successful football career, lucrative broadcasting contracts, endorsements, and other business ventures. Lineker earned substantial income as a player for several top football clubs and continued to amass wealth as the host of BBC’s “Match of the Day” and other sports broadcasting roles.
2. Why did Wayne and Gary Lineker fall out?
The reported fallout between Gary Lineker and Wayne Lineker (his brother) stems from a public dispute over business interests. Wayne Lineker, who runs several businesses in Spain, was reportedly upset with Gary Lineker’s comments regarding some of his business practices. However, both brothers have kept the specifics of the falling out largely private, and they have not publicly addressed the matter in great detail. Despite this, their relationship as family members remains cordial, and any rift appears to have been resolved in the years following the dispute.
3. What do Gary Lineker’s sons do for a living?
Gary Lineker has four sons: George, Harry, Tobias, and Angus. While his sons maintain a relatively private life compared to their famous father, some of them have pursued careers in the public sphere. For instance:
- George Lineker is known for his work as a model and influencer, often sharing posts related to fashion and lifestyle on social media.
- Harry Lineker has been involved in sports, following in his father’s footsteps, and has also dabbled in business and charity work.
- Tobias Lineker has taken a more private route, staying out of the spotlight.
- Angus Lineker is still young but has shown an interest in sports and media, like his father.
4. What has Gary Lineker won?
Gary Lineker has had a highly successful career both at the club and international levels. Some of his notable achievements include:
- FIFA World Cup Golden Boot (1986) – Lineker won the Golden Boot as the top scorer in the 1986 FIFA World Cup with six goals.
- UEFA Cup Winners’ Cup (1989) – Won with Barcelona.
- Football League Cup (1979, 1981) – Won with Leicester City.
- FA Cup (1986) – Won with Everton.
- PFA Player of the Year (1991) – Awarded during his time at Tottenham Hotspur.
- Premier League Top Scorer (1989–1991) – Led Tottenham Hotspur in goal-scoring for multiple seasons.
- England’s all-time top scorer in World Cup tournaments – He scored 10 goals in World Cup matches.
- BBC’s “Match of the Day” host – Lineker is well-known for his long tenure as the host of BBC’s iconic football program, though this is not a “win” per se, it has cemented his legacy in the media world.
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