Overview

• Gary Lineker shared and then deleted a pro-Palestine video on Instagram that included a rat emoji, which critics identified as an antisemitic trope.
• Lineker issued an unreserved apology, stating he did not notice the emoji's connotation and would never knowingly share anything antisemitic.
• Jewish advocacy groups, including the Campaign Against Antisemitism and Labour Against Antisemitism, have filed formal complaints and called for Lineker's dismissal from the BBC.
• BBC staff have expressed outrage, with some alleging the corporation has failed to uphold its anti-racism policies by not disciplining Lineker.
• BBC Director-General Tim Davie emphasized the importance of adhering to social media guidelines but has not announced formal action against Lineker, who remains contracted through 2026.