Gary Lineker apologises for ‘Zionism’ re-post featuring image of rat

Gary Lineker has “apologised unreservedly” for a social media re-post featuring a rat, saying he would “never knowingly share anything antisemitic”.

The 64-year-old presenter faced criticism after he shared a post on Instagram from the Palestine Lobby group showing a picture of a rat and titled: “Zionism explained in two minutes.”

In a statement, he said: “On Instagram I reposted material which I have since learned contained offensive references.

“I very much regret these references.

“I would never knowingly share anything antisemitic.

“It goes against everything I believe in.

“The post was removed as soon as I became aware of the issue.

“Whilst I strongly believe in the importance of speaking out on humanitarian issues, including the tragedy unfolding in Gaza, I also know that how we do so matters.

“I take full responsibility for this mistake.

“That image does not reflect my views.

“It was an error on my part for which I apologise unreservedly.”

BBC Director General Tim Davie said on Wednesday morning: “When it comes to presenters. I just say that the BBC reputation is held by everyone, and when someone makes a mistake, it costs us.

“And I think we absolutely need people to be exemplars of the BBC values and follow our social media policy. Simple as that.”

Rats have historically been used in antisemitic propaganda, including by the Nazis in 1930s Germany.

Lineker’s agent told the BBC the presenter immediately deleted the post when he learned about the image’s symbolism.

The presenter was temporarily suspended from the BBC in March 2023 after an impartiality row over comments he made criticising the then Conservative government’s new asylum policy.

In November, he announced he would be stepping down from presenting Match Of The Day but will still host World Cup and FA Cup coverage.