Gary Lineker found himself in the spotlight for his amicable behavior at the Baller League UK launch event, even before the competition began.
The football legend, aged 64, was present at the Baller League UK draft on Monday, alongside numerous well-known personalities.
Lineker was accompanied by prominent figures such as Luis Figo, John Terry, and Robert Pires in anticipation of the upcoming six-a-side tournament.
The Match of the Day presenter is managing a team in the league together with his BBC colleagues Alan Shearer and Micah Richards.
Host Olivia Buzaglo introduced the trio of former players to the audience as they unveiled their team, 'Deportrio'.
While walking past the other managers, Lineker noticed his former Match of the Day colleague, Ian Wright.
The football icon reacted strongly, immediately leaving Shearer and Richards to rush over to Wright, embracing him warmly.
Buzaglo was joined by influencers KSI and Chunkz to present the teams.
Chunkz expressed his disapproval of Lineker’s friendly demeanor, stating his preference for less cordiality in the competitive environment.
Buzaglo humorously commented on their excessive friendliness, while Chunkz reiterated his dislike for it.
The Baller League, having achieved considerable success in Germany, is set to debut in the UK on March 24.
Former professional players, social media influencers, and free agents were all invited to the draft event in London.
A total of 12 teams are participating in the competition, with six matches scheduled each week leading up to the playoffs.
Baller League CEO, Felix Starck, described the league as an innovative approach to enjoying football.
He emphasized that the Baller League aims to redefine football consumption by offering an engaging and genuine experience that appeals to both existing and new generations of fans.
Starck highlighted the league’s focus on progressive, dynamic, and highly exciting football, aiming to create an irresistible, thrilling, and captivating version of the sport.
Baller League Rules
The Baller League is designed to be exciting.
Key rules include six-a-side matches played indoors on a smaller pitch.
Each half will last for 15 minutes.
Game-changing rule variations will be introduced in the final three minutes of each half, such as 3 vs 3 play, double-point long-range goals, and restrictions on goalkeepers using their hands.
These final three-minute rule changes will be randomly applied.
MLS-style one-on-one penalties will be used.
The league consists of 12 teams, with the top four advancing to the playoffs.
The league is scheduled to commence in March 2025, with the final four playoff games in May to determine the champion.
