Gary Lineker is a name that is familiar to almost everyone in the world of football. He is a former professional footballer who played for top clubs such as Barcelona, Tottenham Hotspur, and Leicester City. After retiring from football, he went on to become a successful television presenter, and is currently one of the most popular and respected sports commentators in the UK.
However, in recent years, Gary Lineker has become known for more than just his footballing achievements and media career. He has also become a vocal advocate for a number of political causes, particularly in relation to Brexit and immigration. This has led to him making a number of controversial statements, which have often been the subject of media scrutiny and public debate.
So, what did Gary Lineker say that has caused such controversy? In this article, we will take a closer look at some of the most notable comments that he has made in recent years, and explore the reactions that they have provoked.
Brexit
Perhaps the issue that Gary Lineker has been most vocal about in recent years is Brexit. He has been a vocal opponent of the UK’s decision to leave the European Union, and has frequently used his platform as a media personality to express his views on the subject.
One of the most notable comments that he made on the subject was in 2016, just after the EU referendum result was announced. In a tweet, he said:
“Feel ashamed of my generation. We’ve let down our children and their children.”
This statement caused a significant backlash, with many accusing Lineker of being out of touch and elitist. Some also pointed out that, as a wealthy celebrity, he would not be personally affected by the consequences of Brexit in the same way as many ordinary people.
However, Lineker has continued to speak out against Brexit in the years since the referendum. He has argued that leaving the EU will have a negative impact on the UK’s economy, society, and culture, and has called for a second referendum on the issue. He has also been critical of the Conservative government’s handling of the Brexit negotiations, and has been supportive of calls for a closer relationship between the UK and the EU.
Immigration
Another issue that Gary Lineker has been vocal about in recent years is immigration. He has been a strong advocate for the rights of immigrants and refugees, and has been critical of the UK government’s policies in this area.
One of the most notable comments that he made on the subject was in 2017, in response to a controversial front-page headline in the Daily Mail newspaper. The headline read:
“British Muslim ‘gangs’ are abusing white girls… and it’s all being covered up”
Lineker responded to this by tweeting:
“The treatment by some towards these young refugees is hideously racist and utterly heartless. What’s happening to our country?”
This statement provoked a significant backlash, with many accusing Lineker of being out of touch and ignoring the issue of grooming gangs. However, Lineker defended his comments, arguing that they were in line with his broader commitment to defending the rights of vulnerable people.
Lineker has also been critical of the UK government’s approach to immigration more broadly. He has argued that the government’s policies have been too focused on reducing numbers, and have failed to take into account the significant economic, social, and cultural benefits that immigrants can bring to the country. He has also been a vocal supporter of campaigns to improve the rights and living conditions of refugees and asylum seekers.
Other comments
While Gary Lineker’s comments on Brexit and immigration have been some of the most controversial, he has also spoken out on a wide range of other issues in recent years. Here are a few examples:
- Covid-19: Lineker has been a vocal advocate for social distancing measures and vaccination campaigns during the Covid-19 pandemic. He has frequently used his social media accounts to encourage people to follow guidelines and get vaccinated, and has been critical of those who refuse to do so. In one tweet in July 2021, he said:
“If you’re offered a vaccine, please take it. For yourself, for your family, for your community. It’s a simple way to help us get through this awful pandemic.”
- Racism: Lineker has been a vocal opponent of racism in all its forms, and has frequently used his platform to speak out against discrimination. In June 2020, following the killing of George Floyd in the United States, he tweeted:
“If you’re not outraged, you’re not paying attention. Racism has no place in society, anywhere. Enough is enough.”
- Poverty: Lineker has also been a vocal advocate for tackling poverty in the UK. In November 2020, he tweeted:
“How can it be that in one of the richest countries in the world, children are going hungry? We need urgent action to tackle poverty and ensure that everyone has access to the basics they need to live.”
Reaction to Lineker’s comments
Gary Lineker’s comments on a wide range of political issues have provoked a range of reactions from the media and the public. While some have praised him for using his platform to speak out on important issues, others have accused him of being out of touch, elitist, or naive.
In particular, Lineker has been the subject of criticism from some parts of the media, who have accused him of being biased and unbalanced in his coverage of political issues. Some have suggested that he should stick to discussing football, and leave politics to the politicians.
However, Lineker has also been widely praised for his commitment to social justice and his willingness to speak out on issues that he cares about. Many people have commended him for using his platform to raise awareness of important issues and encourage public debate.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Gary Lineker is a well-known figure in the world of football and media, but in recent years he has also become a vocal advocate for a range of political causes. His comments on issues such as Brexit, immigration, Covid-19, racism, and poverty have provoked a range of reactions from the media and the public.
While some have praised Lineker for using his platform to speak out on important issues, others have accused him of being out of touch or biased. However, whatever your views on his political opinions, it is clear that Lineker is a passionate and committed advocate for social justice, and his willingness to speak out on controversial issues should be commended.
