The change will likely help the BBC's presenter wage bill and might save some run-ins about Lineker's use of social media - but what about the programme he leaves behind?
Sixty years after MOTD's launch, do TV viewers really still "look away now" to avoid the scores before 10.30pm on a Saturday? In the era of YouTube fan channels, TikTok accounts and wall-to-wall live coverage, is a set-piece highlights programme showing its age?
Niall Paterson looks over the options for one of the BBC's biggest brands - how can it change for an audience falling out of love with linear TV without alienating other viewers?
He's joined by our sport correspondent, Rob Harris, and Stuart Rowson, former BBC Sport exec who now works with brands to attract younger audiences.
Producer: Emma Rae Woodhouse
Editor: Paul Stanworth
Popular Podcasts
Monster: BTK
'Monster: BTK', the newest installment in the 'Monster' franchise, reveals the true story of the Wichita, Kansas serial killer who murdered at least 10 people between 1974 and 1991. Known by the moniker, BTK – Bind Torture Kill, his notoriety was bolstered by the taunting letters he sent to police, and the chilling phone calls he made to media outlets. BTK's identity was finally revealed in 2005 to the shock of his family, his community, and the world. He was the serial killer next door. From Tenderfoot TV & iHeartPodcasts, this is 'Monster: BTK'.
Dateline NBC
Current and classic episodes, featuring compelling true-crime mysteries, powerful documentaries and in-depth investigations.
The Bobby Bones Show
Listen to 'The Bobby Bones Show' by downloading the daily full replay.