Time is running out!
Some within the New York Times are reportedly beginning to question why the investigation into Diana Russini is taking so long, but top editors have repeatedly promised that an investigation will begin. Although the report says it is still “several weeks” away.
The fiasco began in early April when Page Six published a photo of Russini, the top NFL reporter for The Athletic, a Times-owned news organization that provides all-around sports coverage for the Gray Ladies, holding hands with New England Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel.
The infighting at the Times began after Stephen Ginsburg, the Athletic’s top editor, immediately backed Mr. Russini, calling the photo “misleading and lacking important context.” Then, a few days later, “additional information came to light (and) new questions arose,” he said. He promised an investigation.
Mr. Russini, who has vehemently denied having an affair, resigned on April 14, saying, “I stand by every article I have ever published.”
As we previously reported, the episode raised questions internally about the fairness of Russini’s job, but also how the culture of The Athletic, which the Times acquired in 2022, aligns with that of the Times. One insider told Page Six it was “embarrassing” for staff.
But two months later, Russini’s colleagues still don’t have an answer. And while the study’s announcement allayed some concerns, the long waits are starting to raise new concerns, insiders say.
Now, Coach Ginsburg reportedly mentioned this issue at last week’s regular all-hands meeting of the athletic staff.
“It’s going to take a few more weeks,” he said. “There’s a lot of work to do. Obviously, we want to take our time and proceed carefully. As soon as we’ve done that, we’ll update everyone. We’ve also said that if we find things that need to be fixed, we’ll fix them along the way.”
