WINDHOEK — At the Independence Stadium in Windhoek, sports journalists faced limitations in covering the second Grand Prix of the year, an event overseen by Athletics Namibia (AN). The constraints were introduced following new guidelines from the Pupkewitz Foundation, which has recently undertaken sponsorship roles for the competition. Reporters and photographers were instructed to work from the stands or a designated mixed zone gazebo, significantly restricting their ability to capture close-up images of the athletes in action. Access to the field was exclusively permitted for athletes, AN officials, and employees of the Pupkewitz_TV streaming service.

According to Namibia Press Agency, speaking to Nampa on Sunday, the decision to limit media presence on the field was made to reduce movement and facilitate live streaming. Despite these restrictions, a mixed zone was arranged for journalists to interview athletes. Hugo assured that the foundation would collaborate with AN to address and resolve these restrictions before the upcoming AN Grand Prix in Swakopmund.

Questions arose regarding the specific rulebook that justified such limitations, especially since sideline photography is typically allowed at major sporting events. Hugo acknowledged these concerns, indicating plans to consult with AN to refine their approach for future events.

Berthold Karumendu, the Erongo regional sports officer and a member of the AN Executive Committee, revealed that there had been intentions to accredit media personnel for the event, but time constraints made this impossible. He emphasized the importance of media in promoting athletics and assured that AN and its sponsors are committed to enhancing media relations in future events.