The BBC is poised to make a significant change to its World Cup coverage by sending presenters and pundits to the United States for the semi-finals, following widespread criticism of its studio-based approach in Salford. The broadcaster had opted to remain in the UK for most of the tournament as part of a cost-cutting measure, but will now broadcast from the venue for the knockout stages.
Criticism of Salford Studio
The BBC's coverage has faced backlash from viewers and pundits alike for being based in a Salford studio, while rival ITV broadcast from an impressive rooftop set in Brooklyn, New York. Former BBC presenter Gary Lineker was among the critics, having expressed his desire to be on the ground in the US rather than in "a green box in Salford." Lineker, whose podcast 'The Rest is Football' is streaming on Netflix, made a guest appearance on ITV's coverage, where he praised their studio, joking: "I did desperately want to come and see your set. I think it’s absolutely amazing and I can confirm that it is real."
Cost-Cutting and Change of Plans
The BBC's decision to stay in the UK was driven by a cost-cutting initiative, with director of sport Alex Kay-Jelski stating it would save licence-fee-payers "millions" of pounds. However, the broadcaster will now send key figures such as Gabby Logan to the US for the semi-finals. The BBC has 'first pick' for the semi-finals, meaning they could secure England's match ahead of ITV if the team advances past Norway in the quarter-finals, which ITV will broadcast on Saturday evening.
Potential Risks
There is a possibility that the BBC could miss out on broadcasting an England fixture 'on location' entirely if Thomas Tuchel's side is knocked out in Miami. The changes come after the BBC faced scrutiny for its coverage, with Lineker's criticism adding to the pressure. ITV had also secured a major win by persuading Lineker to appear as a pundit on their coverage.
Background
The BBC's coverage of the 2026 World Cup has been based in Salford, while ITV has broadcast from Brooklyn. The BBC's decision to shift to the US for the semi-finals marks a significant reversal of its original cost-cutting strategy.
