The Pants Promise
Former Gary Lineker is no stranger to making bold pledges involving his underwear. The England legend, who famously presented Match of the Day in his boxers after Leicester City won the Premier League in 2016, has now set his sights on an even greater incentive. According to a report from FourFourTwo, Lineker has vowed to host his hit podcast, The Rest Is Football, in just his pants if England go all the way at the current World Cup 2026.
"I’ll do the whole pod in my pants if England win the World Cup," Lineker is quoted as saying. "It worked for Leicester, so why not for the Three Lions?"
The promise, made during a recent episode alongside co-hosts Alan Shearer and Micah Richards, has sparked a wave of excitement and amusement among fans, who are now doubly invested in Gareth Southgate’s side lifting the trophy on home soil.
A History of Lineker’s Underwear Antics
Lineker’s penchant for pants-based celebrations dates back to that remarkable 2015/16 season. When 5,000-1 outsiders Leicester City defied all odds to become champions, Lineker – who had tweeted earlier in the campaign that he would host the BBC’s flagship football show in his underwear if his beloved Foxes won the title – made good on his word. The image of the presenter behind the iconic desk clad only in a pair of blue boxer shorts became an instant classic.
Now, with the World Cup 2026 in full swing and England among the favourites, the 65-year-old is ready to recreate that magic for his podcast audience. The Rest Is Football, which regularly tops the charts, sees the trio dissect the latest action with their trademark blend of insight and humour. A pants-clad episode would undoubtedly become the most-watched in the show’s history.
What Needs to Happen
For Lineker to make good on his promise, England must navigate the knockout stages and emerge victorious in the final at the MetLife Stadium in New Jersey on 19 July. Gareth Southgate’s men have already progressed to the round of 16, and optimism is building after a string of impressive performances. Key players such as Jude Bellingham and Phil Foden have been in scintillating form, while the defence – bolstered by the experienced John Stones – has looked resolute.
England’s potential path to glory is fraught with challenges, with the likes of France, Brazil, and defending champions Argentina all vying for the trophy. However, the prospect of seeing Lineker in his pants has added a quirky subplot to the Three Lions’ campaign, with fans taking to social media to pledge their support for the cause.
Reaction from Co-Hosts
Alan Shearer and Micah Richards have wasted no time in teasing their colleague about the bet. "I’ve already ordered a camera with a wider lens," joked Shearer, while Richards added, "If England win, I’m wearing a tuxedo just to show him up." The banter has only heightened anticipation for what would be a truly unforgettable episode.
Lineker himself appears relaxed about the possibility, acknowledging that the stakes are high but the reward – a first World Cup triumph since 1966 – would be more than worth the embarrassment. "I’ll happily make a fool of myself if it means we finally bring football home," he said.
Key Takeaways
- Gary Lineker has promised to host The Rest Is Football in his pants if England win the 2026 World Cup, echoing his famous 2016 Match of the Day stunt.
- The podcast, co-hosted with Alan Shearer and Micah Richards, would air a special pants-clad episode if the Three Lions are victorious.
- England are through to the knockout stages, and fans are rallying behind the team with added enthusiasm thanks to Lineker’s pledge.
- Lineker’s history of underwear-based celebrations began with Leicester City’s fairytale Premier League win.
Quick Facts
Who: Gary Lineker, former England striker and podcast host
What: Promise to host The Rest Is Football podcast in his pants
Condition: England must win the 2026 World Cup
Previous similar stunt: Presented Match of the Day in boxers in 2016 after Leicester won the Premier League
Podcast co-hosts: Alan Shearer and Micah Richards