Washington Post eliminates sports department and reduces overseas journalists, AP source says

Associated Press (AP)EN 3 min read 100% complete by By DAVID BAUDERFebruary 4, 2026 at 03:53 PM

AI Summary

medium article 3 min

The Washington Post is implementing significant cutbacks, including laying off one-third of its staff across all departments. Announced by executive editor Matt Murray, the changes include the elimination of the sports department and a reduction in overseas journalists. Staff members were notified via email whether their roles were eliminated. In addition to the sports department closure, the newspaper's books department will be shut down, and the Washington-area news department and editing staff will be restructured. The Post Reports podcast will also be affected. The total number of layoffs and current staffing size were not disclosed.

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Washington ×550% Associated Press ×460% Matt Murray ×270% Washington Post ×890%

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