Publication: Play the Game
Topics: Sports integrity, governance, corruption, doping, athletes’ rights, match-fixing, abuse, geopolitics in sports
Rate: $700–$1,150 USD per article (€600–€1,000, depending on scope and research involved)
Deadline: 4 September 2025
Editor Contact: info@playthegame.org
Submit Via: Email (pitch using template provided below)

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What They’re Looking For:

Play the Game—a respected global platform for sports journalism—is seeking pitches for investigative articles and longform reports that tackle deep issues in the world of sports governance and integrity. Whether it’s corruption in international federations, athlete exploitation, doping scandals, human rights violations, or political interference in sports, they want stories that pull no punches and expose uncomfortable truths.

They’re looking to fund multiple investigations using a Danish-government-backed €10,000 grant pool—so multiple writers will get paid. Ideal stories will be globally relevant, even if rooted in a local case.

Your pitch should include:

• A short description of the idea
• Why it’s relevant to Play the Game
• Type of research and sources (desk research, interviews, reports, etc.)
• Key sources you intend to include
• Expected format (number of articles and estimated length)
• Timeline (when you can submit after approval)
• A brief bio and links to published work

All articles must be submitted by March 2026, but earlier is preferred.

💡 Insider tip: Rates are negotiable, and each pitch is judged on its depth and originality. Start with a strong angle and be clear about your timeline and research method.

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Resources/Guides:

Explore Play the Game’s past investigations and features to see the tone and type of journalism they champion. They value clarity, honesty, and global relevance.

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How to Get This Client:

Play the Game takes journalism seriously—this isn’t a quick-turnaround blog post. If you’ve done investigative journalism, sports reporting, or in-depth societal features, this is your lane. Craft your pitch like a mini-proposal: have a compelling headline, show you’ve done your homework, and explain why it matters beyond just your region.

Don’t just pitch a scandal—pitch the deeper issue. Connect it to global systems. Bring receipts (sources and access to insiders help!).

Writers from Africa and the Global South are encouraged to apply—especially if your story touches on corruption or abuse that has global implications.

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