Gary Lineker is a renowned English former professional footballer and a prominent sports broadcaster. Born on November 30, 1960, in Leicester, England, he gained fame as a prolific striker and later transitioned into a successful media career.
Early Life and Education
Gary was born to parents Barry and Margaret Lineker. His middle name, Winston, honors Winston Churchill, with whom he shares a birthday. He has a younger brother, Wayne, with whom he spent his early years playing football in Leicester. Their father, Barry, was a greengrocer, running Lineker’s fruit and vegetable stall in Leicester Market, where Gary often assisted during his youth.
For his education, Gary attended Caldecote Road School (Caldecote Juniors) in Braunstone, Leicester, before moving on to the City of Leicester Boys’ Grammar School in Evington. He was a talented athlete, excelling in both football and cricket. From ages 11 to 16, he captained the Leicestershire Schools cricket team and even idolized former England cricket captain David Gower. Despite his prowess in cricket, football remained his true passion. He played for Aylestone Park Youth during his teenage years. Upon leaving school with four O-levels, one of his teachers remarked that Gary “concentrates too much on football” and would “never make a living at that.” Undeterred, he joined Leicester City’s youth academy in 1976, marking the beginning of his illustrious football career.
Personal Life
In 1986, Gary married Michelle Cockayne. The couple had four sons together: George, Harry, Tobias, and Angus. In 1991, their eldest son, George, was diagnosed with a rare form of leukemia as a baby but fortunately recovered after treatment at Great Ormond Street Hospital in London. This experience led Gary to support children’s cancer charities, including CLIC Sargent and Leukaemia Busters. In May 2006, Michelle filed for divorce, citing Gary’s “unreasonable behavior,” but both emphasized that the separation was amicable.
Gary married Danielle Bux on September 2, 2009, in Ravello, Italy. However, in January 2016, they announced their divorce, citing differences in their desire for children; Gary did not wish to have more, while Danielle did. Despite their separation, they have remained on good terms.
Beyond his family life, Gary is known for his charitable endeavors. He has been involved with various cancer charities and, during the COVID-19 pandemic in April 2020, donated £140,000 to the British Red Cross to support research efforts. Additionally, he was made a freeman of the City of Leicester in 1995, a testament to his strong ties to his hometown.
Family
Gary’s family has played a significant role in shaping his life and career. His parents, Barry and Margaret, instilled in him the values of hard work and dedication. Growing up in a family of greengrocers, Gary learned the importance of perseverance and commitment. His close relationship with his brother, Wayne, was evident as they spent their childhood playing football together, fostering Gary’s passion for the sport.
As a father, Gary has been deeply involved in his children’s lives. His eldest son, George’s battle with leukemia profoundly impacted him, leading to his active involvement in charitable causes related to children’s health. Despite the challenges in his personal life, including two divorces, Gary has maintained a strong bond with his family, emphasizing the importance of unity and support.
Detailed Bio Table
| Full Name | Gary Winston Lineker OBE |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | November 30, 1960 |
| Place of Birth | Leicester, England |
| Height | 5 feet 9 inches (1.77 m) |
| Parents’ Names | Barry Lineker (father), Margaret Lineker (mother) |
| Net Worth (2024) | Approximately £30 million |
Career
Gary Lineker’s professional football career began with Leicester City, where he made his first-team debut in 1978. Over seven years, he scored 95 goals in 194 appearances, showcasing his exceptional talent as a striker. In 1985, he transferred to Everton, where he continued his impressive form, netting 30 goals in 41 games during the 1985-86 season. His performance earned him both the PFA Players’ Player of the Year and the FWA Footballer of the Year awards.
His success caught the attention of Spanish giants Barcelona, leading to his move to La Liga in 1986. During his tenure with Barcelona, Gary scored 42 goals in 103 appearances and won the Copa del Rey in 1988 and the European Cup Winners’ Cup in 1989. In 1989, he returned to England to play for Tottenham Hotspur, where he added 67 goals to his tally over 105 matches and secured the FA Cup in 1991. He concluded his playing career with Nagoya Grampus Eight in Japan, retiring in 1994.
On the international stage, Gary earned 80 caps for England between 1984 and 1992, scoring 48 goals. He remains one of England’s top goal scorers, with his six goals in the 1986 World Cup earning him the Golden Boot as the tournament’s top scorer. Notably, throughout his entire professional career, Gary never received a yellow or red card, underscoring his sportsmanship and discipline on the field.
Following his retirement from professional football, Gary transitioned into broadcasting. He became the host of the BBC’s “Match of the Day” in 1999, a position he held for 25 years, making him the longest-serving presenter in the show’s history. His broadcasting career extended beyond football commentary; he appeared in various media roles, including commercials for Walkers
Latest News
As of February 1, 2025, Gary Lineker continues to be a prominent figure in sports broadcasting. In late 2024, he announced his decision to step down as the host of BBC’s “Match of the Day” after a 25-year tenure. Despite this departure, Lineker remains active in the sports media landscape. He continues to host BBC’s coverage of the FA Cup and is slated to present during the 2026 World Cup. Additionally, he remains involved in podcasting, co-hosting “The Rest Is Football” alongside Micah Richards and Alan Shearer. Lineker has also ventured into new projects, including a six-a-side football league with his former colleagues. His enduring presence and adaptability underscore his significant impact on sports broadcasting.
Social Media Accounts
| Platform | Official Link |
|---|---|
| @GaryLineker | |
| @garylineker |
Death Cause
As of February 1, 2025, Gary Lineker is alive and continues to contribute to sports media.
Gary Lineker’s journey from a celebrated footballer to a respected broadcaster highlights his versatility and enduring impact on the world of sports.
Height and Physical Appearance
Standing at 5 feet 9 inches (1.77 meters), Gary Lineker maintained a lean and athletic build throughout his football career. His agility and speed were key attributes that contributed to his success on the field.
Net Worth as of 2024
As of 2024, Gary Lineker’s estimated net worth is around £30 million. This wealth is attributed to his successful football career, long-standing broadcasting roles, and various endorsement deals, including a notable partnership with Walkers Crisps
FAQS
How rich is Gary Lineker?
As of 2024, Gary Lineker’s estimated net worth is around £30 million, earned through football, broadcasting, and endorsements.
What company does Gary Lineker own?
Gary Lineker co-founded Goalhanger Films and Podcasts, producing sports documentaries and podcasts like The Rest Is Football.
What do Gary Lineker’s sons do for a living?
His eldest son, George Lineker, is an entrepreneur, while his other sons, Harry, Tobias, and Angus, maintain private lives outside the public eye.
What happened to Gary Lineker?
Gary Lineker recently stepped down as the host of Match of the Day after 25 years but remains active in sports media and podcasting.
