BBC picks World Cup team 40 days before the tournament begins
The FIFA World Cup is getting closer—just 40 days to go! Organizers, the host countries, and broadcasters like the BBC are busy making sure everything is ready for a smooth event.
People traveling to work at the tournament, especially journalists and broadcasters, are getting their visas sorted for Canada, Mexico, and the United States.
The BBC has asked its traveling staff to take special training to prepare for possible protests during the trip. According to the Telegraph, this “public order” course is mandatory and includes role-playing different situations—like acting as a protester or dealing with fake blood.
The BBC is covering the training costs, which are about £750 per person, adding up to tens of thousands of pounds in total. ITV, another UK broadcaster, is also covering the World Cup but hasn’t said if they’re doing this type of training.
The BBC reportedly did similar training before the 2010 World Cup in South Africa.
While the BBC hasn’t explained the reason for the training this time, recent events in North America might be why. For example, Mexico faced violence after a top drug cartel leader was killed in February. In the U.S., there was a recent assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump at a White House event.
Plus, Amnesty International and other groups have warned World Cup visitors about rising violence and strict immigration enforcement in the U.S., urging fans to stay safe.