The Sports Journalist Barometer Report 2024, published by the United Against Online Abuse campaign, is the first global, data-driven study focusing on the scale, impact, and personal toll of online abuse targeting sports journalists.
Supported by the FIA Foundation and coordinated by FIA University, this pioneering research uncovers the pressing challenges faced by sports journalists worldwide and offers actionable recommendations to address this pervasive issue. The significant findings and recommendations are based on a major survey of global sports journalists conducted in Autumn 2024.
95%of respondents reported that online abuse targeting sports journalists is either “very” or “fairly widespread.” |
75%reported an increase in the severity of online abuse in the past year, over 40% noting a “significant” rise. |
85%of respondents said that online abuse may influence their willingness to pursue certain stories, threatening press freedom. |
Misogynyemerged as the most prevalent form of abuse, followed by sectarianism, racism, and personal attacks on physical appearance. |
Sports journalists also shared harrowing accounts of the toll online abuse takes on their mental health and professional lives. Female journalists highlighted gender-based abuse, with many withdrawing from social media to protect their well-being. The anonymous nature of online platforms was identified as a major contributor to the scale and intensity of abuse.
Mohammed Ben Sulayem, FIA President and Founder of United Against Online Abuse, said:
“Journalists are the voices of our sports, connecting millions of fans worldwide to the passion, drama, and triumphs that make it so special. It is essential that they can carry out their invaluable work in a safe and supportive environment. This landmark report exposes the unacceptable abuse they’re facing and the chilling impact it has on press freedom.
“We must act decisively to address this issue, working together across the sporting, media, and political sectors to implement meaningful solutions that protect journalists and upholds the integrity of sports journalism.”
Darren Lewis, President of the Sports Journalists’ Association, said:
“Not a single journalist will be surprised by the numbers. Nor will they be shocked by the details. No matter how harmless the subject, how anodyne the story, writers find themselves in the crosshairs of anonymous social media users intent on directing abuse their way. Legislation with teeth, per the report, must also follow. The findings in the report are too important to delay action any further.”
Recommendations for change:
The report calls for urgent, collaborative, and solutions-focused action across the sports, political, and media sectors.
Key recommendations include:
- Establishing a working group of journalists, sports organisations, and technology platforms to develop frameworks that ensure safe working environments for media professionals.
- Promoting zero-tolerance policies against online abuse within sports federations and media organisations.
- Launching public awareness campaigns to highlight the critical role of journalists and foster respectful online behaviour.
- Strengthening collaboration with social media platforms to enhance abuse detection, reporting, and removal mechanisms.
Access the Full Report
Explore the full findings and actionable recommendations in the Sports Journalist Barometer Report 2024. Click here to download the report.
Join the Campaign
UAOA invites stakeholders from across the sporting, political, and technology sectors to join the coalition in its mission to create a safer, more inclusive environment for all. To get in touch with the campaign, click here.