Editorial Policy

Last updated: May 23, 2026

This Editorial Policy describes the principles that guide reporting, writing, and publishing at Futbolzen. It exists so readers, sources, partners, and search engines can hold us to clear, public standards.

1. Editorial Independence

Editorial decisions — what we cover, how we cover it, and what conclusions we draw — are made solely by our editorial team. Advertisers, sponsors, affiliate partners, and outside commercial interests have no influence on news coverage, opinion writing, or editorial judgement.

2. Verification and Sourcing

We aim to verify every factual claim before publication. Our standards include:

• Citing original sources wherever possible (official club statements, FIFA, UEFA, CONMEBOL, league announcements, press conferences, court records, peer-reviewed studies).
• Using a minimum of two independent sources for breaking-news claims that have not been confirmed by an official authority.
• Clearly labelling unconfirmed reports as “rumour”, “report”, or “unconfirmed”.
• Cross-checking statistics against authoritative providers (FIFA, Opta, FBref, Transfermarkt) and disclosing the source.

3. Bylines and Attribution

Every article carries a real, named author byline linked to a public profile that lists the writer’s background and expertise. Contributing reporters are credited inline. Wire-service content (where used) is clearly marked.

4. Anonymous Sources

We use unnamed sources only when (a) the information is in the public interest, (b) the source could face retaliation if named, and (c) at least one editor has independently verified the source’s identity and access. We explain to readers why a source is anonymous wherever possible.

5. Quotes and Translations

Direct quotations are reproduced accurately. When statements originally given in another language are translated, we say so. Minor edits for clarity are noted in brackets.

6. Opinion vs. News

Opinion, commentary, and analysis are clearly labelled and live under our Opinion section. News reporting is separated from editorial viewpoint.

7. Use of AI Tools

We may use artificial-intelligence tools for research support, transcription, summarisation, headline brainstorming, or draft editing — always under human editorial supervision. Final responsibility for accuracy, sourcing, and judgement rests with the named human author and an editor. We disclose AI-assisted workflows where doing so is material to the reader’s understanding.

8. Corrections

We correct errors quickly and transparently. See our full Corrections Policy for how to report errors and how we respond.

9. Plagiarism

Plagiarism is a firing offence. All quoted material is attributed; all paraphrased reporting credits the original source with a link wherever possible. We do not republish another outlet’s work without permission.

10. Conflicts of Interest

Writers and editors disclose personal, financial, or family ties that could affect coverage. Anyone with a meaningful conflict steps away from the relevant story.

11. Image and Video Use

We license photographs and video clips from rights-holders (e.g., Getty Images, AP, Reuters, or club press services) or use original imagery. Reader-submitted images are credited and used only with permission. We caption images accurately and do not manipulate news photographs.

12. Sponsored Content and Advertising

Sponsored articles, paid partnerships, and advertorials are clearly labelled (for example, “Sponsored”, “Partner Content”). Affiliate links are disclosed in line with our Disclaimer.

13. Diversity and Inclusion

We aim for coverage that reflects the global, multilingual, multicultural reality of football. We seek diverse sources, photographs, and writers, and we challenge stereotypes in our language and framing.

14. Reader Feedback

We welcome reader feedback. Send story tips to [email protected], corrections to [email protected], and general feedback via our Contact page.