sport news SPORTS AGENDA: BBC big names stump up for business class flights to the World ... trends now
The BBC have extended their cost-cutting to the World Cup. Pundits and staff heading to Qatar have had economy seats and been told if they want to sit in business class they will have to pay the cost of an upgrade themselves.
On a flight from Manchester on Friday a number of the bigger names did just that, turning left while the broadcaster’s hoi polloi veered right.
In other, related cost-saving news, the BBC and ITV are sharing a studio in Qatar. It would appear there are no such issues across the pond, with US broadcasters Fox taking over the waterfront with a vast complex on Doha’s west bay that features three separate studios.
Gary Lineker (L) and Alan Shearer (R) feature in the BBC's World Cup squad in Qatar
Near miss raises concerns
The first injury of the World Cup almost came before a ball had been kicked.
On Sunday, both the US and Wales held press conferences at the media centre. During the break between the two, a weighty part of a light fixture plunged from the ceiling, narrowly avoiding a FIFA volunteer and what would have been a serious injury.
Much snagging is carrying on in Qatar, with concerns over how ready the host is.
A FIFA volunteer had a lucky escape in the media centre in Doha on Sunday
ITV splash the cash
ITV have scored an early victory when it comes to bragging rights.
While the BBC have chosen to stay at the Ezdan Hotel, ITV have splurged on the more affluent Hilton Hotel at the Pearl, in the most exclusive part of the city.
It is also somewhere where alcohol is known to be available, albeit at eye-watering prices.
Russo & Co take United to next level
Manchester United believe their 3-2 victory over Arsenal, sealed by Alessia Russo’s late goal, could be a landmark for the club.
United were relatively late to the party when it came to the women’s game, eventually setting up a side in 2018.
But it was noticeable that, among a crowd of more than 40,000 at the Emirates, large numbers had travelled to support the away team. United, who are yet to win the WSL title, sit third in the table.
Manchester United believe their dramatic win at Arsenal could be a landmark for the club
Asleep on the job
Much has been made of the beefed-up security surrounding the England team, with Gareth Southgate and his players staying at a hotel behind a perimeter wall staffed by police officers in a supposed of ring of steel.
One reporter, however, was amused to find one of Qatar’s finest fast asleep when they strolled by the other evening.
Manchester's St Bede’s can boast three former pupils in Qatar. The independent school has a long-standing partnership with Manchester City and academy products Phil Foden (England), Matt Smith (Wales) and Jeremie Frimpong (Netherlands) are all in Doha.
A Stellar cast in Qatar
The Stellar Agency has the most players at the World Cup with 35, five more than second-placed US giants Wasserman. It is more than double the figure of 17 boasted by old rivals Base. Both London-based
