By Michelle Chapman | Associated Press
The New York Times has made the strategic decision to disband its sports department and instead rely on coverage from The Athletic, a website that it acquired in 2022 for a substantial $550 million.
This move will affect over 35 individuals working in the sports department at The New York Times. However, the journalists currently on the sports desk will be transitioning to different roles within the newsroom, and there are no plans for any layoffs.
In a letter to staff on Monday, New York Times Co. Chairman A.G. Sulzberger and CEO Meredith Kopit Levien explained the reasoning behind this decision, stating, “Though we understand that some may be disappointed, we firmly believe that this step is in the best interest of our readers. It will enable us to fully leverage the unique strengths of both The Times and The Athletic in their respective newsrooms.”
Furthermore, the restructuring will lead to an expansion of sports coverage.
Sulzberger and Kopit Levien elaborated, “Our plan includes incorporating a greater number of the approximately 150 daily stories produced by The Athletic. These stories cover a wide range of leagues, teams, and players across the United States and internationally. As a result, our digital homepage, newsletters, social feeds, sports landing page, and print section will be enriched by this collaboration.”
The New York Times sports writers have a history of excellence, having won several Pulitzer Prizes over the years. Notable recipients include Arthur Daley in 1956 for his column “Sports of the Times,” Walter Wellesley (Red) Smith in 1976 for commentary, and Dave Anderson in 1981 for commentary.
The acquisition of The Athletic by The New York Times Co. was announced early last year. This move was part of the company’s strategic plan to expand its subscriber base amidst a decline in newspaper print ads.
Unlike many local news outlets, The New York Times experienced a significant increase in subscribers during the presidency of Donald Trump and the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. However, the publication has actively sought to diversify its coverage beyond politics by introducing lifestyle advice, games, and recipes to attract a wider audience.
In May, The New York Times reached a new contract agreement with its newsroom union after more than two years of negotiations, including a 24-hour strike. The deal includes salary increases, provisions for hybrid work, and other benefits.
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