The Washington Post has reversed its plans to send journalists to cover the Milano-Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, a decision that underscores mounting financial pressures within the newsroom and has fueled internal dissent.

In a memo to staff, managing editor Kimi Yoshino explained that, after reassessing budget priorities for 2026, the paper will not deploy a reporting contingent to the Winter Games, despite months of planning and tens of thousands of dollars already spent on travel arrangements and accommodations.

The abrupt cancellation came just weeks before the Games’ opening and followed reports of anticipated layoffs and cost-cutting measures across the news organization, raising concerns about the future of the Washington Post’s sports and international desks.

Many journalists prepared to cover the Olympics had already made travel arrangements, heightening frustration at the timing of the decision.

Veteran staff and newsroom insiders voiced strong criticism, noting the historic significance of Olympic reporting and warning that such coverage decisions risk eroding the paper’s editorial presence on major global events.

The move reflects broader uncertainty at the Jeff Bezos-owned newspaper, which has faced sustained financial challenges and staff reductions in recent years, prompting intense discussion among journalists about the direction and sustainability of its flagship reporting operations.

As the Winter Games approach without Washington Post on-site coverage, the newsroom continues to grapple with balancing fiscal realities against its longstanding commitment to comprehensive journalism.