Gary Lineker’s World Cup ‘Accident’: The Most Bizarre Story in Football History
Football has seen its share of bizarre moments, from goalkeepers scoring last-minute winners to fans running on the pitch dressed as bananas. But one of the strangest (and most hilariously human) incidents involves England legend Gary Lineker, the 1990 World Cup, and… an unfortunate toilet emergency.
Yes, you read that right. One of England’s greatest ever strikers literally couldn’t hold it in, and the whole world was watching.
The Match That Turned Into a Mishap
It was June 11, 1990. England were playing the Republic of Ireland in their opening game of the World Cup in Italy. The match itself was tense, physical, and not exactly a goal-fest. But while the world’s cameras were following the ball, Gary Lineker was dealing with something else entirely, a stomach issue that couldn’t wait until full-time.
During the game, Lineker started feeling unwell. And then it happened: the moment every human dreads. Right there on the pitch, in front of millions of viewers, Lineker had what can only be described as a mid-match accident.
“I’ve Sh*t Myself” – Lineker Confirms It Himself
Years later, Lineker has openly talked about the incident on BBC’s Match of the Day, The Graham Norton Show, and even in his autobiography My Life in Football. No rumours, no myths, the man himself admitted it.
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He recalled dropping to the ground to “ease the situation” and discreetly wiping his shorts on the grass. It was, in his own words, “the most embarrassing moment” of his career. The funny part? He kept playing, like nothing had happened. That’s commitment… or desperation.
The Internet Never Forgets
In the social media age, this kind of thing would have gone instantly viral. Luckily for Lineker, it was 1990, no memes, no Twitter. Still, replays and interviews have kept the story alive, making it one of the most bizarre (and relatable) moments in football history.
Why This Story Is Weirdly Iconic
Gary Lineker scored 48 goals for England, won the Golden Boot at the 1986 World Cup, and became one of the most respected pundits in football. Yet ask fans what they remember, and someone will always bring up the time he had a number two on the pitch.
And that’s the beauty of football, it’s not just the goals, it’s the stories. Some are glorious, some are tragic… and some, well, are just about needing the loo.
Also Read- If Cricketers Played Football: What Would Be Their Positions?
