The BBC has issued a stern reminder to its on-screen talent about adhering to the corporation's strict clothing guidelines following an incident involving Gary Lineker, who seemed to flout the rules during his coverage of Euro 2024.Lineker, the face of the BBC's Euro 2024 coverage, found himself at the centre of a wardrobe controversy after hosting England's clash with Serbia sporting attire that closely resembled his own Next fashion line.The Match of the Day presenter and former England striker was spotted wearing a pale green knitted T-shirt and later a sage green jacket during the half-time segment, items that are strikingly similar to those from his Next X Gary Lineker collection.Retailing at £16 for the green knitted regular T-shirt and £55 for the linen jacket, these pieces have raised eyebrows, prompting the BBC to reiterate its policy, though it stopped short of commenting directly on Lineker's choice of outfit.A spokesperson from the BBC conveyed to PA Media: "Presenters/contributors provide their own wardrobe and all presenters/contributors are regularly reminded of the guidelines in relation to clothing, even if they are not doing proactive promotional work."The corporation's conflict of interest guidelines clearly state: "Presenters or other individuals must not appear on-air wearing clothing or using products or services which they have agreed/been contracted to promote, advertise or endorse or in which they have a specific financial interest."The latest spat between Lineker and the BBC has erupted just over a year since the broadcaster suspended the presenter. Lineker faced suspension after he tweeted his disapproval of the Tory government's asylum seeker policy, particularly its rhetoric towards refugees.The suspension led to a show of solidarity from Lineker's colleagues, with presenters, pundits and commentators withdrawing from their programmes. This caused chaos in the BBC's broadcasting schedule, leading to a truncated 20-minute Match of the Day without commentary or analysis and the cancellation of numerous other shows.BBC director-general Tim Davie eventually relented, reinstating Lineker to his role. Following this, a review into the social media activities of BBC presenters was initiated, with Davie expressing regret for the turmoil caused."Everyone wants to calmly resolve the situation. Gary Lineker's the best in the business - that's not for debate. As a keen sports fan I know that to miss programming is a real blow and I'm sorry about that," Davie said to BBC News."We are working very hard to resolve this situation and make sure we get output on air. I am in listening mode. I want to make sure that going forward we have a workable solution."The potential confusion caused by the grey areas of the BBC's social media guidance that was introduced in 2020 is recognised. I want to get matters resolved and our sport content back on air. Impartiality is important to the BBC. It is also important to the public."
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