Special call for journalists to present their work and investigations at Play the Game 2024
For its 13th conference, Play the Game extends a special invitation to journalists to share their journalistic work and engage in open, fact-based and constructive debates on themes that are essential to the future of sport.
It is difficult to overestimate the important role of journalism and hard core investigative reporters in exposing problems and affecting change in national and international sport on a wide range of topics including corruption in FIFA and the IOC, match-fixing, and abuse of athletes.
Over the past 25 years, many of these journalists have shared their stories and formed networks at previous Play the Game conferences, and Play the Game wants this practice to continue.
"It is important for Play the Game to continue to be a meeting place for journalists and provide them with an opportunity to present their own work, get fresh perspectives on current debates in sport, and network with other journalists," says Stanis Elsborg, senior analyst and head of conference at Play the Game.
Therefore, Play the Game 2024 will pay particular attention to the role of journalism and encourages all journalists to consider making a presentation of their work or investigations at the conference.
No topic is excluded in advance, but Play the Game will especially welcome presentations that can contribute to the key themes for the conference:
• Autocracy vs. democracy: Which side is sport playing for?
• Clearing sport: Countering crime, protecting integrity
• Can sport be sustainable? The impact on climate and the environment
• Sports journalism: A watchdog for society or a pet for showbiz?
• Abuse and agony: How can sports organisations effectively safeguard athletes?
• Pursuing diversity: How to make up for power imbalances in sport?
• In the wake of scandal: What is the future of anti-doping?
In addition to showcasing important journalistic work, the conference will also facilitate a number of workshops where journalists can share their inspiration and experiences.
"The conference will also explore ways to strengthen and fund in-depth sports journalism recognising its crucial role in holding power to account," says Stanis Elsborg.
Other sessions will examine the role of journalism and the media in handling some of the most important discussions in the current sports political landscape such as the growing influence of Middle Eastern states in international sport.
Submit your idea
Journalist who would like to be part of Play the Game 2024 should submit a description of their proposed presentation which should last no more than 10 minutes through Play the Game's application system.
Read more about how to submit your idea.
The deadline for submissions is 15 October 2023, and applicants will be notified about acceptance by 1 November 2023.