New television and broadcast guidelines introduced within European athletics are drawing strong support from competitors, including Swedish triple and long jumper Maja Åskag. According to reports from outlets such as Ekuriren and Expressen, the updated regulations are designed to prevent the unnecessary sexualization of female athletes during major competitions by altering how camera crews frame and capture events.

For years, athletes and sports federations have raised concerns over broadcast angles that focus disproportionately on physical attributes rather than athletic performance. The implementation of these new protocols ahead of international championships, including the European Athletics Championships, marks a concerted effort by sports administrators to shift the visual narrative back to sport.

Maja Åskag Welcomes the Shift Away From Invasive Camera Angles

Maja Åskag voiced strong approval for the updated directive, noting that female competitors in technical disciplines often find themselves subjected to intrusive framing. Speaking to regional media outlets, Åskag highlighted that sports broadcasts have frequently relied on tight shots that reduce high-level athletic exertion to voyeuristic imagery.

According to Expressen, Åskag pointedly remarked that television coverage has at times consisted of little more than localized camera work focusing on competitors’ bodies. By establishing clear boundaries for camera operators on the infield, the new guidelines aim to eliminate such framing during live broadcasts and highlight replays.

Broad Support Across the Nordic Athletics Community

Swedish middle-distance runner Jamilia Isat was among those backing the regulatory changes, telling public broadcaster Sveriges Radio that the adjustment is a welcome and necessary step forward for the sport.

Implementation at Major Championships