The role of sports media in managing sports crises from the perspective of sports facility managers in the provinces of M'Sila and Bordj Bou Arreridj

Abstract

There is no doubt that the overlap between media, communication and the sports field has become a prominent factor in the public relations arena in any contemporary society. Sports have become structured and have become an organized and integrated structure with its institutions and laws in which the process of organizing young people in sports associations and clubs in different disciplines takes place, bringing them together in competitions managed by federations. In sporting events, where fans gather to cheer within the framework of supporters' associations, sports have also become intertwined with economic and commercial aspects. These aspects contribute to sports through financial support in exchange for guaranteed advertising. It was inevitable that sports would be linked to the media in various forms, such as media coverage, interviews, and reports, all serving the sport and guiding it towards a positive direction, fair play, and continuity without bias or exaggeration. This is what is expected of the media: to increase trust and strengthen public relations. Any ill-chosen statement can lead to poor communication, and consequently, to a public discourse characterized by division and a culture of violence. So, has the media truly served sports? Mohamed Rachad Hamlawi says, "...It is established that crisis communication and media represent a crucial aspect in researching crisis management strategies, plans, and programs. Hence, the 1980s witnessed a significant increase in research and studies addressing communication and media aspects during crises. According to Verta Taylor, early researchers failed to grasp the dual role of the media in times of crisis. The media determines events and reports facts, while simultaneously acting as key organizers in preparation." Crisis preparedness and response are key areas of focus. Most research and pioneering applications of crisis communication have emphasized the role of media in generating initial reports on events and highlighting negative aspects of crises. This raises the question of the accuracy of media coverage of crises. Given the significant importance of crises and their management in sports administration, requiring a well-considered media approach, the researchers will explore the role of sports media in managing sports crises. To clarify this concept, we pose the following question: Does sports media play a role in managing sports crises from the perspective of sports facility managers?