European Athletics (EA) and the European Broadcasting Union have introduced new guidelines to address concerns over the sexualization of female athletes in televised coverage. The measures aim to modify camera work and replay choices to ensure that athlete portrayal focuses on performance rather than potentially discomforting or inappropriate visuals.

The initiative responds to feedback from female athletes who expressed unease with certain camera angles and shots, which they say shift attention away from their sporting achievements. The guidelines recommend broadcasters avoid extended close-ups of body parts, low-angle shots filmed from behind or beneath athletes, and particular uses of slow-motion replays that could be perceived as sexualizing.

Dobromir Karamarinov, president of European Athletics, described the development of the guidelines as an important step toward removing harmful portrayals of women in sports broadcasting while continuing to deliver high-quality storytelling and technical standards. The move reflects growing awareness among sports organizations about the need to balance athlete dignity with engaging media coverage.

The rollout of these filming protocols marks a coordinated effort by EA and the European Broadcasting Union to foster respectful and professional representations of female athletes across European sports broadcasting platforms. Broadcasters are encouraged to implement the changes during upcoming competitions to align with the new standards.