Gabby Logan has defended the BBC’s plan to have pundits cover the World Cup from a studio in Salford, following criticism from Gary Lineker.
Lineker, who previously earned £1.35million a year from the BBC, had mocked the broadcaster’s decision to base its coverage in Salford until the final week of the tournament. He contrasted this with his own plans to be in New York for the World Cup with guests.
Logan Justifies BBC’s Approach
Logan argued that the BBC’s approach was a responsible use of licence fee payers’ money. She stated that broadcasting from Salford was a cost-effective way of covering the tournament.
She also highlighted the quality of the BBC’s coverage, saying that it would not stop them winning awards. Logan referenced the Women’s Euros, where the BBC used a similar setup in Salford before broadcasting from the later stages of the tournament.
“That’s a very expensive cost to take out a lot of people to major tournaments. So we have to think about that. The belt is being tightened all the time, as you know, with the licence fee. So there’s lots of good reasons why we do that.
Lineker’s Comments on World Cup Coverage
Lineker said he does not regret not anchoring the BBC’s World Cup coverage. He said he was originally going to do it for the BBC this summer but that didn’t transpire.
He boasted about his alternative plans, contrasting the Salford studio with his trip to New York City. According to Lineker, he would have been in Salford in a green box, but now he will be in New York City overlooking Times Square with lots of great guests.
BBC’s Star-Studded Lineup
Gabby Logan will be part of the BBC’s presenting team for the tournament. The BBC’s team includes a range of former England internationals such as Wayne Rooney, Micah Richards, Alan Shearer, Joe Hart, Paul Robinson, Steph Houghton, Ellen White and Danny Murphy.
Representing Scotland will be Scott Brown, Rachel Corsie and James McFadden. Other football stars signed up include Olivier Giroud, Gael Clichy, Cesar Azpilicueta, Benni McCarthy and Lucas Leiva.
Thomas Frank and Ashley Williams will also be part of the coverage. Darren Cann will provide insight on refereeing decisions.
Logan believes the quality of the BBC’s coverage will not be affected by broadcasting from Salford, and that their coverage has been exceptional in previous tournaments.