A new report published by the leading campaign to tackle online abuse in sport has revealed the alarming scale and severity of abuse targeting sports journalists.
The Sports Journalist Barometer Report, published by the United Against Online Abuse Campaign (UAOA), has recorded a disturbing rise in both the volume and toxicity of online abuse directed at sports journalists, to the extent that it is now threatening to their ability to report freely.
Supported by the FIA Foundation, UAOA has published this report following a global survey of sports journalists across diverse sporting disciplines.
The report’s findings are poised to energize the expanding coalition against online abuse in sports, fostering meaningful, decisive, and collective efforts to protect those who bring the stories of sports to life.
Key Findings
- Widespread Abuse: 95% of respondents believe online abuse against sports journalists is pervasive.
- Escalating Severity: Over 75% reported that the severity of online abuse has risen in the past year, with more than 40% stating it has “significantly” worsened.
- Threat to Press Freedom: Over 85% of respondents expressed concern that fear of online abuse may deter journalists from pursuing certain stories, posing a critical threat to press freedom.
- Forms of Abuse: Misogyny emerged as the most common form of abuse, followed by sectarianism, racism, and attacks on physical appearance.
The report also highlights the intense personal toll online abuse has on sports journalists. Respondents described relentless harassment, pile-ons, and threats that have caused severe mental distress. Female journalists reported facing pervasive misogyny, often leading to withdrawal from social media.
Anonymous accounts were identified as a significant factor contributing to the scale of abuse, enabling perpetrators to target journalists without accountability.
The survey, supported by the Sports Journalists’ Association (SJA), gathered input from sports journalists worldwide, revealing a global and consistent pattern of escalating abuse. Regardless of geography, journalists shared experiences of relentless online harassment, with women reporting additional scrutiny and abuse based on their gender.
UAOA’s Response
In response to these alarming findings, United Against Online Abuse (UAOA) has pledged to lead a unified and collaborative approach to tackle this critical issue. Their plan involves forging partnerships across the sports, political, and journalism sectors to drive tangible solutions.
Key recommendations include:
- Formation of a Working Group: A dedicated body comprising sports journalists, sporting organizations, and technology platforms to develop and implement robust frameworks for journalist safety and well-being.
- Comprehensive Codes of Practice: Advocacy for media organizations to create clear policies on reporting online abuse and providing support for affected journalists.
Leadership Statements
Mohammed Ben Sulayem, FIA President and Founder of UAOA, remarked:
*”Journalists are the voices of our sports, connecting millions of fans worldwide to the passion, drama, and triumphs that make sport so special. It is essential that sports journalists can carry out their invaluable work in a safe and supportive environment. However, this landmark report exposes the unacceptable abuse they’re facing and the chilling impact it has on press freedom.
“I commend the SJA for their leadership and pledge FIA’s continued support in developing actionable solutions to protect those who dedicate their careers to sharing the stories of our sports.”*
Darren Lewis, President of the SJA, noted:
“These findings will surprise no journalist. Regardless of how harmless or neutral the subject matter, writers frequently become targets for anonymous online abuse. Legislation with real enforcement power is urgently needed. Delaying action is no longer an option.”
Gianni Merlo, President of AIPS, stated:
“Online abuse has become a significant societal issue, undermining the principles of sports and sports journalism. This report is a vital step toward combating this pervasive problem. AIPS remains committed to ensuring a safe working environment for sports journalists both online and offline.”
The Path Forward
The fight against online abuse is more than a battle for the safety of individual journalists—it is a stand for press freedom, sports integrity, and the values of open communication. This report serves as a rallying cry for collective action, offering a blueprint for safeguarding those who bring the stories of sports to life.
