Gary Lineker makes feelings clear on dating again as BBC host teased by Micah Richards after two divorces

WATCH NOW: Sports round-up as Gary Lineker opens up on love life

Jack Otway

By Jack Otway


Published: 05/04/2025

- 15:03

The 64-year-old is currently single

Gary Lineker has revealed he has no plans to start dating again once he leaves Match of the Day at the end of this season.

The 64-year-old presenter is set to depart the BBC's flagship football show this summer after decades in the role.


His exit will give him free Saturdays for the first time in many years.

Despite this newfound freedom, however, Lineker insists he won't be using his spare time to pursue romantic relationships.

Gary Lineker Micah Richards

Gary Lineker has revealed he has no plans to start dating again once he leaves Match of the Day at the end of this season

GETTY/PA

The former England striker has been divorced twice and appears content with his single status.

Speaking on The Rest Is Football podcast, Lineker firmly rejected co-host Micah Richards' suggestion about 'finding him a partner' after some teasing from the former Manchester City star.

"I'm so happy on my own," Lineker insisted. "I've got lots of friends I go out with and have dinner and have fun. I'm alright, Micah, honestly."

The presenter explained that his contentment with single life stems from years of marriage.

"I've been married most of my adult life and I'm quite set in my ways and comfortable on my own now," he added.

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Gary Lineker Danielle Bux

Gary Lineker and Danielle Bux divorced back in 2016 but have remained on friendly terms

PA

Lineker has not been involved in a long-term relationship since his second divorce in 2016.

He appears to have embraced his independence in recent years.

The football icon maintains an active social life with friends rather than seeking romantic companionship.

Lineker's first marriage was to model and actress Michelle Cockayne in 1986, with whom he has four sons.

The couple divorced in 2006, with Cockayne citing Lineker's alleged "unreasonable behaviour" as the reason.

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Both later stated their split was amicable despite the initial divorce filing.

Three years after his first divorce, Lineker married Welsh actress and model Danielle Bux in Italy in 2009.

Their relationship ended in January 2016, with the couple separating due to Lineker not wanting more children.

Despite their divorce, Lineker and Bux have maintained a friendly relationship.

They were recently spotted enjoying a cosy wine night together with Lineker's son, Harry.

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This continued friendship demonstrates that Lineker has managed to maintain positive relationships with his ex-partners.

His reluctance to date again appears to be a personal choice rather than the result of difficult breakups.

Meanwhile, speaking to Four Four Two, Lineker opened up on his MOTD replacements Kelly Cates, Mark Chapman and Gabby Logan.

"That's probably down to the fact it's a massive commitment," he said when asked why the Beeb went with three replacements, rather than just one.

"Those three have all got families, and if you're saying someone is going to do it for the next 10 or 20 years, then your weekends are gone.

Gary Lineker

Gary Lineker was married to Michelle Cockayne with the couple having four children together

GETTY

"That might be it, I don't know. I didn't get involved in any of that.

"I take it as a compliment that they've named three, but I suspect it's not due to that.

"I haven't seen them yet to speak to them, but I will do - they'll be fine and they'll do a great job.

"I've known them all for years, they're top presenters. I'll be watching, but probably on iPlayer I don't think I'll be watching on Saturday. Maybe the odd time, if I'm in."