SportFootballGary LinekerGary Lineker appeared on ITV's World Cup coverage of Germany vs Ivory Coast but left viewers very confused by a surprise decision01:11, 21 Jun 2026Updated 01:26, 21 Jun 2026ITV viewers were left baffled by Gary Lineker only appearing for 20 minutes during the build-up to Germany vs Ivory Coast in the World Cup. The former BBC pundit looked to be part of the rival broadcaster's match coverage but surprisingly departed their studio before kick-off.‌Lineker left the BBC 12 months ago following social media posts that did not align with their guidelines. He has since started The Rest Is Football podcast with Micah Richards and Alan Shearer and is out in the United States after a huge Netflix deal was agreed for the World Cup.‌Taking advantage of his presence, ITV booked him for a short appearance on Saturday evening with Lineker also promoting his upcoming show 'The Box' on the channel. Following a barrage of questions towards him to start the programme, ITV returned from ads and Lineker had disappeared which saw confused viewers take to social media.‌One X user said: “Oh, Gary Lineker was only there for the first 20 minutes of the build-up. Won't be in the studio during the game itself. Ah well.”Another added: “Just turned on #GERCIV - Where’s Gary Lineker? He spoofed hosting & then left?”A third stated: "Wait where's Lineker gone was he only on the bit at the start or?"‌Get the latest World Cup news straight to your inbox by _signing up to our Make Football Great Again newsletter now!Though most were bewildered by his premature exit, Lineker impressed many others with his comments, which also saw a number of viewers again commend ITV for their superior coverage.One X account brutally admitted: “ITV have absolutely wiped the BBC out the park in every single department for this World Cup. Gary Lineker is a real one who should've never been sacked.”‌A second said: “Seeing Gary Lineker on ITV today is like watching Lewis Figo go from Barca to Real. Unreal move by ITV!”A third wrote: “That opening segment on ITV with Gary Lineker was exceptional. The best in the business.”‌Lineker's most noticeable remark during his showing appeared to be a subtle dig at the BBC following his playful exchange with lead presenter Laura Woods.Upon being asked what he has been up to, Lineker said: "I've been doing a show daily for Netflix in Times Square but I did desperately wanted to come and see your set. I think it's absolutely amazing, and I can confirm that it's real."What a backdrop. And obviously I wanted to do TV, I haven't done it for a little while."Article continues belowJoin our new WhatsApp community and receive your daily dose of Mirror Football content. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don't like our community, you can check out any time you like. If you're curious, you can read our Privacy Notice.Choose Daily Mirror as a 'Preferred Source' on Google News for quick access to the news you value.‌ITVBBCGary LinekerWorld Cup 2026