The European Broadcasting Union, in partnership with European Athletics, has introduced new television broadcasting guidelines designed to prevent the sexualization of female track and field athletes. The rules urge broadcasters to avoid low camera angles and prolonged close-up shots of specific body parts, recommending instead that cameras remain positioned in front of competitors and steer clear of filming below the waist.
The initiative follows complaints from competitors that suggestive camera angles cause discomfort and distraction. Olympic pole vaulter Holly Bradshaw, who helped develop the standards alongside fellow Olympian Ivana Spanovic, reported experiencing online abuse and discovering inappropriate videos of herself on the internet as a result of revealing broadcasts. Leading sports officials backed the new standards to eliminate harmful depictions and ensure female sports coverage is treated with equal respect.
The updated filming standards are expected to be implemented next month at the European Athletics Championships, which begin on August 10, 2026, in Birmingham.