50 Facts About Gary Lineker

Early Life and Education

Gary Lineker's journey began in Leicester, England. His early years set the stage for a remarkable career in football and beyond.

1. Gary Winston Lineker was born on November 30, 1960, in Leicester, England.
2. He attended Prebendal School in Leamington Spa before moving to Leicester Grammar School.

Football Career

Lineker's football career is legendary. He played for top clubs and left an indelible mark on the sport.

3. He started his professional career at Leicester City in 1978.
4. Lineker played for Everton, Tottenham Hotspur, and Barcelona.
5. He is the only player to be the top goalscorer in England with three clubs: Leicester City, Everton, and Tottenham Hotspur.
6. Lineker made his England debut in 1984, earning 80 caps and scoring 48 goals.
7. In the 1986 FIFA World Cup, he scored six goals, earning the Golden Boot.
8. He holds England's record for goals in the World Cup.
9. Lineker played in Euro 88 but failed to score due to hepatitis.
10. Despite never winning a top-flight league title, he scored 331 goals in his senior career, including 283 at club level.
11. In 1990, he received the FIFA Fair Play Award for his conduct on and off the pitch.
12. After retirement, he was inducted into the English Football Hall of Fame.

Media Career

Transitioning from the pitch to the screen, Lineker became a prominent figure in sports broadcasting.

13. He began his media career on the BBC for Radio 5 Live and as a football pundit.
14. Lineker has presented the flagship BBC football program Match of the Day since the late 1990s.
15. He is the BBC's lead presenter for live football matches, including international tournaments.
16. Lineker has worked with networks like Al Jazeera Sports, Eredivisie Live, NBC Sports Network, and BT Sport.
17. He appeared as a team captain on the sports game show They Think It's All Over from 1995 to 2003.
18. In 1997, he presented Grandstand during the Grand National bomb alert.
19. In 1999, he replaced Desmond Lynam as the BBC's anchorman for football coverage.
20. Following Steve Rider's departure, he became the presenter for the BBC's golf coverage.
21. In 2009, Lineker and his wife hosted a series of the BBC's Northern Exposure.
22. He made cameo appearances in TV shows and movies like Bend It Like Beckham and Ted Lasso.
23. In 2013, he participated in the genealogical program Who Do You Think You Are?
24. In 2021, Lineker started hosting the ITV game show Sitting on a Fortune.

Author and Book

Lineker's passion for football extends to writing, where he shares his insights and favorite moments.

25. He wrote a book titled 50 Times Football Changed the World.
26. The book was co-authored with TV writer Ivor Baddiel.
27. It features illustrations by Erica Salcedo.
28. A limited number of signed copies are available from retailers like Waterstones and WH Smith.
29. The book was released on October 13, 2022.
30. Lineker shares his favorite football stories that have united people against all odds.
31. The book includes ‘Game-Changer Awards’ for impactful individuals in football.
32. Readers can pre-order the book from various retailers.

Personal Life and Legacy

Lineker's personal life and legacy are as impressive as his professional achievements.

33. He is a keen supporter of Leicester City and led a consortium in 2002 to save the club from bankruptcy.
34. His efforts earned him the position of honorary vice-president of Leicester City.
35. During his career, Lineker never received a yellow or red card.
36. The book explores how football has united people and changed the world.
37. It highlights pioneering players who have used their platforms for good.
38. Young footballers from non-league teams teach lessons about inclusion and sportsmanship.
39. The book features illustrations by Erica Salcedo, adding a visual element to the stories.
40. Signed copies are available from retailers like Waterstones and WH Smith.
41. The book was released on October 13, 2022.
42. Lineker shares his personal journey as a footballer and broadcaster.
43. It highlights how football has united people against all odds.
44. The ‘Game-Changer Awards’ recognize individuals who have made a lasting impact.
45. Readers can pre-order the book from various retailers.
46. Lineker has made numerous media appearances, showcasing his versatility.
47. In 2013, he participated in Who Do You Think You Are?, discovering his family history.
48. In 2021, he started hosting the ITV game show Sitting on a Fortune.
49. The book explores how football has changed individual lives.
50. Gary Lineker's legacy extends beyond his playing career and media work.

Gary Lineker: A Legacy Beyond the Pitch

Gary Lineker's journey from a talented footballer to a respected media personality is nothing short of remarkable. His achievements on the field, like being the top goalscorer in the 1986 FIFA World Cup, have cemented his status as a football legend. Off the pitch, his transition into broadcasting, especially as the long-time host of Match of the Day, showcases his versatility and charisma. Lineker's dedication to football extends beyond playing, as seen in his efforts to save Leicester City from financial ruin. His book, 50 Times Football Changed the World, highlights his passion for the sport and its impact on society. Lineker's legacy is not just about goals and accolades; it's about his influence on football culture and media. His story inspires both fans and aspiring professionals, proving that passion and dedication can create a lasting impact in any field.