The BBC has been heavily criticized for reportedly deciding not to send TV pundits to next summer’s World Cup until the quarter-finals. Experts will analyze the match from the BBC’s home base in Salford, despite the match being played thousands of miles away.
The 2026 World Cup begins on Thursday, June 11th and will be co-hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico. England won all eight qualifying matches without conceding a goal and qualified for the tournament. Scotland will also take part, but the Republic of Ireland and either Wales or Northern Ireland can qualify for the play-offs.
According to the Daily Mail, the BBC had no plans to set up a studio for the World Cup because the costs of broadcasting the tournament across three countries were considered unsustainable.
The BBC’s carbon footprint is also taken into consideration, with some sources suggesting that there is even a possibility that the experts will not travel to the US until the semi-finals.
Some commentators will be in North America from the start to cover high-profile games or games involving their home countries. However, commentary on other conflicts will be provided by the UK.
And the BBC has been criticized for its decision, despite saying plans had not yet been finalized.
Former Sports Minister Clive Efford MP explained:
“This is a natural decision. This is our national sport and the World Cup, with millions of people taking part. The BBC should recognize that.
“This is a matter of priorities, and they seem to have it completely wrong. I’m surprised they even considered not being there.”
Nigel Huddleston, shadow secretary for culture, media and sport, said: “While the public is asking the BBC to use its license fee wisely, we also expect the BBC to be proactive when it comes to coverage of major events.
“Scotland and England have already qualified, Wales and Northern Ireland still have hope, and the whole of the UK is excited for the World Cup. I therefore look forward to the country’s broadcasters being able to deliver the comprehensive coverage package that football fans across the country have come to expect.”
Meanwhile, Dame Caroline Dinenage, chair of the culture, media and sport committee, said: “I can’t imagine the pundits will be happy, but this is a much bigger tournament so there will be a lot of extra matches to travel to.
“Perhaps there will be a discussion of balancing value for money and quality of content, especially after criticism of staff numbers at Glastonbury this summer.”
