Two journalists from the ARD, Hajo Seppelt and Jörg Mebus, have reportedly been excluded from attending a press conference hosted by the German Speed Skating Association (DESG) following their critical reporting. This decision has sparked outrage among the journalism community, leading the Association of German Sports Journalists (VDS) to vehemently protest the exclusion, calling it a direct violation of press freedom. The journalists had not received confirmation of their accreditation prior to the event, despite ongoing efforts to attend the press briefing scheduled for Thursday morning in Berlin.

The VDS has expressed serious concerns regarding this issue, labeling the exclusion as an infringement on the rights of the press to report freely and without obstruction. The conference is critical because the DESG is expected to address allegations raised in the ARD's reporting, which has only heightened the tension between sports organizations and media outlets. The incident highlights the ongoing struggle between sports bodies and journalistic integrity, emphasizing the need for transparent access to information and accountability in sports governance.

This situation reflects broader implications for media freedom in Germany, where concerns over press access and journalistic independence have been raised. As the DESG reacts to the reports, it is essential for the sports community and governing bodies to recognize the role of journalists in fostering transparency and public interest. Engaging openly with the media is crucial for rebuilding trust and ensuring accountability, particularly in light of serious allegations regarding governance in sports organizations.