The BBC is set to break with decades of tradition by not sending its flagship television pundits and commentators to the 2026 World Cup until at least the quarter-final stage, Daily Mail Sport can reveal.
A Remote Tournament from Salford
In a major shift, the broadcaster plans to cover a significant portion of the tournament remotely from its base in Salford. High-profile names like Wayne Rooney are expected to provide analysis on matches taking place in the United States, Canada, and Mexico from thousands of miles away. While some radio staff will travel, the main television presentation team will not.
The BBC has declined to comment officially, stating only that its World Cup plans are not yet finalised. However, sources indicate the quarter-finals are the current target for sending personnel, with some even suggesting the move could be delayed until the semi-finals.
Cost and Carbon Footprint Drive Decision
The primary reason behind the unprecedented decision is understood to be the immense cost of covering an expanded 48-team tournament spread across three host nations. Furthermore, the corporation's carbon footprint was also a consideration in opting for remote coverage.
This stands in stark contrast to rival broadcaster ITV, which, according to sources, will not follow the BBC's lead. ITV is planning to have its own studio in New York, a city hosting the final and seven other matches, although this has not been officially announced.
Rival Reaction and Political Criticism
The move has emboldened the BBC's competitors. Delighted insiders at ITV believe this could make them the nation's preferred choice for the tournament, marking a potential historic shift in World Cup viewing habits.
The decision has also drawn sharp criticism from political figures. Clive Efford MP, the former shadow minister for sport, expressed shock, stating: "This is our national sport followed by millions of people and this is a World Cup. The BBC should recognise that... I'm stunned that they would even think about not being there."
Industry insiders have gone further, questioning whether the BBC's right to broadcast the tournament's 'crown jewel' matches, protected for free-to-air television, should be reviewed if they fail to give the event the respect it deserves.
The 2026 World Cup will be the first the BBC has covered in this largely remote manner, a significant departure from its on-the-ground presence at previous tournaments like the 2022 event in Qatar.
