New York Times Sports Desk Closure Sparks Reporter Rally

The New York Times is officially closing its standalone sports section, with coverage being shifted to The Athletic. The move has sparked outrage from the NewsGuild, accusing Times leadership of union-busting. Times sports staffers are planning a protest march and rally against the decision. Despite the closure, the Times will continue to cover sports. The Times paid $550 million for The Athletic last year and has been integrating it into the newsroom, leading to concerns about editorial standards and the site's business model. Former Times sports staffers have already found new roles at The Athletic, while others have been reassigned within the newsroom.