No Lauberhorn downhill run without SRG: Halving initiative threatens Swiss sport

The Pro Media Diversity Alliance is using the current winter sports season to draw attention to the impending consequences of the halving initiative. This initiative calls for a radical reduction of the SRG to its core mandate, which could result in entertainment and live sport disappearing from the program. "Without the public service, Switzerland as a sporting nation will not only lose live coverage, but also the emotional connection that transcends language and national borders," says the alliance.

SRG now broadcasts around 30 sports live - from floorball to beach volleyball. This visibility not only promotes top performances, but also young talent, as the example of athletics shows: In the wake of stars like Mujinga Kambundji, more and more young people are discovering the joy of this sport.

The Lauberhorn downhill is a prime example of the value of public service. Thanks to SRG, the traditional competition is broadcast from over 20 camera angles - a technical masterpiece that attracts worldwide attention. However, the halving initiative would threaten this popular festival: without SRG, live broadcasts would be subject to paywalls and the quality of reporting would decline.

"The halving initiative is a threat to Swiss sport," warns the Alliance for Media Diversity. Less funding for SRG not only means less coverage, but also higher costs for sports fans.