Some football fans on social media, especially on X (formerly Twitter), have humorously proposed that the BBC should replace outgoing sports broadcaster Gary Lineker with Ghanaian comedian and presenter Akwasi Boadi, popularly known as Akrobeto.
Fans of the BBC’s Match of the Day show jokingly suggested that Akrobeto would be an ideal successor to Lineker, who is stepping down from the programme after a 25-year run at the end of the current football season.
In response to the buzz, a clip of Akrobeto delivering sports news on UTV was shared online, quickly racking up over 2 million views. Many English football fans remarked on how entertaining the show would be with Akrobeto at the helm.
The well-known comic actor presents news with a comedic twist on his television show, The Real News. A highlight of the show is his sports segment, where his amusing mispronunciations of football team names have created countless viral moments.
Alex Kay-Jelski, BBC Sport’s director, has confirmed that Gary Lineker will indeed leave the programme but will continue to host the BBC’s coverage of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
“Gary is a world-class presenter, and we’re delighted that he’ll lead our coverage of the next World Cup and continue to lead our live coverage of the FA Cup,” he said, as quoted by UK outlet The Independent.
“After 25 seasons, Gary is stepping down from MOTD. We want to thank him for everything he has done for the show, which continues to attract millions of viewers each week. He’ll be hugely missed on the show, but we’re so happy he is staying with the BBC to present live football,” he added.