Breaking News: Barbara Slater Steps Down as BBC Sport Head Following Gary Lineker Controversy

Barbara Slater, the BBC Sport executive who found herself at the center of the Gary Lineker crisis, has announced her retirement after 14 years in the role and 40 years at the BBC. Slater, the first female director of sport at the corporation, endured a tumultuous tenure, with one of the lowest points being the fallout from Lineker’s suspension for his controversial remarks comparing the UK government’s immigration bill to Nazi Germany. In addition to this controversy, the BBC also lost exclusive rights to major events such as the Olympics during Slater’s time in charge.

Despite these challenges, the Lineker scandal will likely be the defining legacy of Slater’s career, as it resulted in a boycott of Match of the Day by other presenters and pundits who believed it raised questions about impartiality. Slater, who publicly apologized for the fallout, faced criticism for prioritizing talent over journalists in her department, particularly in relation to freelancers like Lineker who were given more leniency with their social media posts. This issue is expected to be further examined in an internal review triggered by the Lineker crisis.

Slater’s retirement announcement comes as the BBC awaits the findings of the review. Reflecting on her career, she expressed her gratitude for the opportunities and memories, including covering historic sporting moments like Pete Sampras’s Wimbledon win and the 2012 London Olympics. She also highlighted the BBC’s role in promoting women’s sport and inspiring the next generation. BBC director-general Tim Davie praised Slater’s contribution and legacy, while chief content officer Charlotte Moore commended her leadership and commitment to increasing the profile of women’s sport.