NY Times Union Calls on Publisher to Abandon Potential Athletic-Kalshi Deal, Citing ‘Journalistic Independence’

The union representing New York Times staff has urged the company to halt a potential collaboration between sports publication The Athletic and prediction market platform Kalshi, arguing that such a partnership could jeopardize the news organization's journalistic independence. The NewsGuild of New York sent a letter to Times publisher A.G.

Sulzberger, The Athletic's David Perpich, and senior editors, claiming that any partnership between Kalshi and The Athletic would threaten the journalistic independence of the whole company. The union maintains that, despite The Athletic and The New York Times being separate entities, the journalism and work are interwoven and readily apparent to any reader.

The Athletic has decided not to proceed with the sports betting or prediction markets partnership with Kalshi, according to sources familiar with the matter. However, the outlet is still exploring other commercial opportunities with Kalshi, such as advertising. The guild unanimously approved the letter. The union specifically objected to any arrangement beyond standard advertising that would incorporate Kalshi's products into The Athletic's journalism, as it could raise questions about the outlet's independence when covering prediction markets.

The Athletic and Kalshi were reportedly in advanced talks for a sponsorship agreement, though no deal had been finalized. The Athletic's previous sponsorship deal with BetMGM expired earlier this year. Kalshi refrained from commenting on the potential deal, stating they do not discuss "rumored deals." The New York Times and The Athletic did not provide a response.

The union's concerns arise as Kalshi expands its footprint across sports and media, with existing integrations with CNN and CNBC, as well as a deal with Fox Corp. for Fox News, Fox Business, Fox Weather, and Fox One.