Gary Lineker accused of breaking BBC rules by promoting his clothing line on air

Gary Lineker has been accused of breaking BBC guidelines by wearing his own range of menswear clothing while presenting coverage of England’s opening Euro 2024 game against Serbia. The Match of the Day host, 63, launched a range with the high street retailer Next in 2023 and appeared to be kitted out in a pale green T-shirt and sage jacket from his Next collection on Sunday night. BBC guidelines state that presenters should not appear on-air wearing clothing or using products or services which they have agreed to promote, advertise, or endorse or in which they have a specific financial interest. Lineker seemingly wore the same green T-shirt and jacket that he has modelled in promotional materials for Next on their social media channels during the BBC’s football coverage. The BBC did not comment on whether individual presenters had broken advertising guidelines but stated that presenters/contributors provide their own wardrobe and are regularly reminded of the guidelines in relation to clothing. This is not the first time Lineker has been accused of breaking BBC advertising rules, as he breached guidelines during the 2018 World Cup by sharing promotional social media posts about a TM Lewin shirt. His colleague Alex Scott was also told by the BBC to stop promoting items from Reiss while presenting World Cup coverage in Qatar. Lineker has faced criticism from animal rights activists for his collection with Next, particularly for its use of mohair wool. PETA claimed the collection was made from the hair of abused goats and criticized Next for profiteering from cruel practices on Angora goats. Lineker's actions have sparked controversy and scrutiny regarding his endorsements and promotions, highlighting the importance of adhering to broadcasting guidelines and ethical considerations in the media industry.