2014 Winter Olympics Reportedly Can’t Be Instagrammed By Journalists

Vasily Konov, editor of the state run R-Sport news agency reportedly told journalists at a seminar last week that they are not allowed to use a phone, pocket camera or tablet to take photos or videos at the 2014 Winter Olympics in Sochi, Russia. That means that journalists present at the games will not be able to live Tweet, Vine, Instagram as the action happens. Local Russian media reports that anyone found in violation of this rule will be stripped of their credentials and will lose their accreditation on the spot.

Journalists that have professional equipment and special badges will be allowed to shoot and record as much as they want. The rule doesn’t apply to spectators, they can use any device they want to capture the action. However, supporters will reportedly not be allowed to bring reflex cameras and nonprofessional equipment to the games. The International Olympic Committee is yet to issue an official comment on these rumors. To put things in perspective, look at the 2012 London Olympics, where no such restrictions were placed on journalists, they had the freedom to Instagram to their heart’s content. While a confirmation is yet to be issued, journalists covering the 2014 Winter Olympics in February definitely aren’t going to be stoked.

Adnan Farooqui
Categories: General