BBC blasted over controversial World Cup pundit decision – ‘Completely wrong’ | Football | Sport
The BBC have been blasted after reportedly deciding not to send television pundits to next summer’s World Cup until the quarter-final stage. Pundits are set to analyse matches from the BBC’s base in Salford, despite the fact games will be played thousands of miles away.
The 2026 World Cup is due to get underway on Thursday, June 11, with the USA, Canada and Mexico co-hosting the event. England have secured their place at the tournament after winning all eight of their qualifying matches without conceding a single goal. And Scotland will also feature, while the Republic of Ireland and either Wales or Northern Ireland can still qualify through the play-offs.
According to the Daily Mail, the BBC do not plan to have a studio at the World Cup, with the cost of covering the tournament across three countries thought to have been deemed unpalatable.
The BBC’s carbon footprint was also a consideration, with some sources even raising the prospect that pundits may not travel to the USA until the semi-finals.
Some commentators will be in North America from the outset to cover high-profile games and matches involving the home nations. But commentary for other clashes will be provided from the UK.
And the BBC have been slammed for their decision, despite the fact they have stated that their plans are yet to be finalised.
The former shadow minister for sport, Clive Efford MP, explained: “If the BBC are not there for the entirety of the tournament I will be shocked.
“It’s an obvious decision. This is our national sport followed by millions of people and this is a World Cup. The BBC should recognise that.
“It’s a question of priorities and it looks like they’re getting them completely wrong. I’m stunned that they would even think about not being there.”
And the shadow culture, media and sport secretary, Nigel Huddleston, stated: “The public requires the BBC to spend their licence fee money carefully, but we also expect them to rise to the occasion when it comes to coverage of major events.
“With Scotland and England already qualifying and hopes still alive for Wales and Northern Ireland, there is excitement across the UK for the World Cup. I therefore hope that the nation’s broadcaster can provide a comprehensive package of coverage which meets the expectations of football fans around the country.”
Meanwhile, the chair of the culture, media and sport committee, Dame Caroline Dinenage, said: “I can’t imagine the pundits are best pleased but it is a much larger tournament this time, so a lot of extra games to travel to.
“Presumably there’s an argument balancing value for money and quality of content, particularly [following] the criticism over the number of staff at Glastonbury this summer.”
