The European Broadcasting Union (EBU) has released a guide banning specific camera angles to prevent the sexualization of female athletes during broadcasts [1].

This shift in production standards represents an effort to prioritize athletic achievement over suggestive imagery. By restricting certain shots, the EBU intends to ensure that the focus remains on sporting performance rather than the physical appearance of the competitors [1].

The guidelines were published in mid-June 2026 [1]. They apply to the upcoming European Athletics Championships, which are scheduled to take place from Aug. 10 to 16, 2026 [2]. The event will be hosted in Birmingham, United Kingdom [2].

The EBU's new directives target the way female athletes are framed on screen. The goal is to eliminate shots that have historically been used to sexualize women in sports, a move that aligns with broader efforts to modernize sports media coverage.

Broadcasters participating in the event are expected to adhere to these standards to maintain a professional environment for the athletes. The guidelines serve as a framework for camera operators and directors to avoid intrusive or objectifying angles during the competition in Birmingham [2].

While the specific prohibited shots were not detailed in the released summaries, the overarching objective is to protect the dignity of the participants. The EBU said the measure is necessary to ensure that the broadcast reflects the spirit of the competition [1].

“The EBU intends to ensure that the focus remains on sporting performance rather than the physical appearance of the competitors.”

This policy indicates a growing institutional recognition of how broadcast framing can impact the perception of female athletes. By formalizing these restrictions, the EBU is attempting to standardize a non-sexualized viewing experience across multiple international networks, potentially setting a precedent for other major global sporting events.