Paloma del Río criticizes sexism and athlete sexualization

Journalist Paloma del Río has addressed ongoing issues of sexism and the sexualization of female athletes during an appearance on the program ‘Al cielo con ella’. Del Río argued that focusing on the bodies, attractiveness, or clothing of female competitors distracts from their athletic performance, stating that “sexualization adds nothing to the competition.”

Reflecting on her four-decade career with Televisión Española, Del Río noted that sports journalism was once a field dominated by men using “sexist and androgynous language.” She shared personal experiences of facing gender bias early in her career when questioning her professional ambitions.

Additionally, Del Río commented on the recent news regarding the Football Federation covering egg freezing costs for players and referees. While acknowledging the complexity of the debate, she noted the business logic behind such initiatives, suggesting they are implemented to ensure athletes do not have to pause their careers, thereby maintaining the profitability of the sport.