The National Council of the Order of Journalists (ODG) has voiced significant concern over a disturbing series of incidents limiting and disrespecting the work of sports journalists. This alarming trend affects various sports and journalistic categories across Italy.
The latest report originates from Calabria, where a joint statement from the regional Order, the Italian Sports Press Union (USSI), and the Cosenza Press Club condemned the Cosenza Calcio football club for its “closed attitude towards local media, which undermines the work of dozens of journalists and violates the public`s right to information.”
Recent Incidents Highlight Growing Problem
The ODG highlighted several recent examples from July alone:
- In Lazio, the regional Order and USSI had to intervene regarding a Lazio Calcio press conference, which was controversially scheduled to be held behind closed doors with pre-approved questions, severely limiting spontaneous inquiry.
- In Sicily, the president of Trapani Basket was publicly censured for offensive remarks directed at journalists from the “Giornale di Sicilia” newspaper.
These incidents reveal a growing inclination within sports organizations to restrict access to information. The ODG emphasizes that freedom of the press must always be guaranteed to protect citizens` fundamental right to be accurately informed, a principle that applies equally to events in the world of sports.
The Cosenza Calcio Standoff: A Case Study
Focusing specifically on the situation in Calabria, the regional journalistic bodies have jointly expressed profound concern and indignation over the Cosenza Calcio football club`s complete lack of communication and information regarding its activities. This silence is particularly troubling given the club`s delicate situation, following its recent relegation from Serie B to Serie C – a development with significant social repercussions for fans and the wider community in one of Italy`s largest provinces.
Despite reassurances received in previous meetings with club officials, including President Guarascio, about establishing cordial and professional relations with the local press, the club has maintained an attitude of closure, hostility, and indifference. This has fueled fears of a potential disbandment of the club, despite numerous unconfirmed rumors about ownership changes.
Journalists report an unprecedented level of non-cooperation from the club, a situation unseen in the last 40 years of its history. This “closed attitude towards local media” is seen as a direct affront to the work of dozens of journalists and a violation of the public`s right to information.
Consequently, the journalistic bodies are demanding an urgent clarifying meeting with the current representatives of Cosenza Calcio, proposing the inclusion of representatives from the Municipality and Province of Cosenza. The goal is to dispel doubts, address frustrations, and ensure that certain and verified information regarding the club`s objectives can be properly disseminated, finally shedding light on a “strange” standstill that is generating widespread confusion, controversy, and uncertainty within the local sports community.
