BBC BIG NAMES STUMP UP FOR BUSINESS CLASS

THE BBC have extended their costcutting 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.

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.

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.

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 outfits are now owned by Creative Artists Agency after a takeover this year, but continue to compete for the globe’s best talent.