Publication: ORI Magazine
Topic(s): World Cup, global football culture, human-interest soccer stories, travel writing, deep-dive features
Rate: Up to $1 per word
Deadline: 10 January 2026
Name of Editor: Kade Krichko
Submit Via: Email (kade@ori-mag.com — include “PITCH” in subject)

ORI is commissioning fresh, original World Cup stories for its Spring 2026 issue. This is a strong opportunity for freelance writers looking for high-paying writing jobs, global sports writing gigs, and World Cup feature assignments. Kenyan writers searching for international writing jobs will find this especially worthwhile, given ORI’s focus on local storytellers with authentic, place-rooted perspectives.

The magazine isn’t a traditional sports outlet—they want World Cup stories that go beyond the pitch: culture, identity, history, geography, unlikely characters, hidden communities, hyper-local subcultures, and the humanity behind football’s global reach.

They’re looking for surprising angles, unheard histories, emotional arcs, and narrative depth. Think people, place, culture, and the strange, beautiful intersections between them. They’ve already assigned pieces ranging from the futuristic turf farms shaping Cup pitches to a church built around a football legend. They want more—especially from regions not yet covered: Africa, Asia, the Middle East, and underreported corners of the global game.

Writers should bring sharp ideas, clear locality, and—if possible—a photographer or photo assets. Keep pitches concise and compelling. This is a rare opportunity to earn premium rates while telling vibrant global football stories.

What They’re Looking For:
Unique, deeply reported narrative features that explore football’s cultural footprint; local voices; visually strong concepts; place-driven storytelling; inventive, surprising World Cup angles.