The BBC has taken the unprecedented step of making its television pundits and commentators "work from home" until the quarter-finals of next summer's World Cup in North America, according to a new report.
Some sources also suggest workers may remain in the UK until the semi-finals.
Matches will instead be analysed remotely from the broadcaster's Salford headquarters, meaning figures such as Wayne Rooney will provide commentary on games taking place thousands of miles away.
The BBC stated that World Cup arrangements have not yet been finalised.
Canada, Mexico and the US will jointly host the competition, marking the first time in history that the tournament will have three host nations.
The financial cost of covering a tournament spanning three nations with an expanded 48-team format is understood to be the primary driver of this decision, according to the Daily Mail report.
Environmental considerations also reportedly played a role, with the BBC's carbon footprint from covering such a geographically dispersed event factoring into the planning.
Unlike previous tournaments, the broadcaster will not establish its own studio at any of the host venues.
The BBC has taken the unprecedented step of making its television pundits and commentators 'work from home'
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This marks a significant departure from the BBC's traditional approach to major football competitions, where on-location coverage has been standard practice.
ITV has opted for a markedly different strategy, with sources confirming the rival broadcaster will establish a studio in New York, which serves as the venue for the final and seven additional fixtures.
Insiders at ITV are reportedly delighted by the BBC's approach, believing it will position their network as the country's preferred destination for World Cup coverage.
This represents the first occasion in the BBC's history that it will not have television pundits present at a World Cup from the tournament's outset.
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Matches will instead be analysed remotely from the broadcaster's Salford headquarters
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Some within the industry have questioned whether the corporation's access to such prestigious sporting events should be reconsidered.
Clive Efford MP, the former shadow minister for sport, condemned the corporation's plans.
He told the Mail: "If the BBC are not there for the entirety of the tournament, I will be shocked.
"It's an obvious decision. This is our national sport followed by millions of people and this is a World Cup."
Some sources also suggest workers may remain in the UK until the semi-finals
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He added: "The BBC should recognise that."
"It's a question of priorities and it looks like they're getting them completely wrong.
"I'm stunned that they would even think about not being there."
One industry figure suggested to the Mail that the BBC's crown jewel status for major events should be reviewed, asking why the tournament should not be given to a broadcaster willing to treat it with appropriate respect.
Canada, Mexico and the US will jointly host the competition
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Shadow culture, media and sport secretary Nigel Huddleston told the publication: "The public requires the BBC to spend their licence fee money carefully, but we also expect them to rise to the occasion when it comes to coverage of major events.
"With Scotland and England already qualifying and hopes still alive for Wales and Northern Ireland, there is excitement across the UK for the World Cup.
"I therefore hope that the nation’s broadcaster can provide a comprehensive package of coverage which meets the expectations of football fans around the country."
Some radio commentators and analysts will make the trip despite the unprecedented cutback.
GB News has approached the BBC for a comment.
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