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has issued a full apology after sharing a controversial Instagram story that included a widely offensive image associated with . The Match of the Day host reposted a video from the group Palestine Lobby titled Zionism explained in two minutes, which featured an illustration of a rat - a symbol historically used by Nazi Germany to dehumanise Jewish people. In a statement, Lineker 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."

The post sparked immediate concern among Jewish advocacy groups, with the charity Campaign Against Antisemitism confirming it was submitting a complaint to the BBC.

Lineker's agent also commented on the matter, telling the BBC: "Whilst viewing and reposting a video, Gary did not notice a rodent emoticon added by the author of the post. Although if he had, he would not have made any connection. The repost has been removed."

The agent added that Lineker deleted the post as soon as he learned about the image's symbolism.

The BBC is now facing renewed pressure to respond as its high-profile presenter finds himself at the centre of a row over online conduct and the boundaries of public broadcasting.

In response to Lineker's post, Campaign Against Antisemitism posted on X: "Nothing to see here. Just Gary Lineker's Instagram account sharing an anti-Israel video misrepresenting Zionism, complete with a rat emoji."

The group added that his "continued association with the BBC is untenable," and called fOr his immediate dimissal saying, "he must go".

A spokesperson for the Board of Deputies of British Jews said they felt "the BBC should ask him to leave now rather than allowing him to dictate his own terms. He has caused great offence with this video - particularly with his egregious use of a rat emoji to illustrate Zionists."

The apology came hours after the BBC's director general reminded stars to follow the corporation's social media rules and avoid damaging "mistakes", after the criticism of Lineker's post.

Asked whether the post had broken BBC guidelines, Tim Davie said: "The BBC's reputation is held by everyone, and when someone makes a mistake, it costs us.

"I think we absolutely need people to be exemplars of the BBC values and follow our social media policy. It's as simple as that."

The former England striker has attracted criticism before for his posts on social media in the past.