Tensions Bubble Up At ‘Athletic’ After Writer Dianna Russini Resigns Due To Photos Of Her With Patriots’ Mike Vrabel

Dianna Russini’s departure from The Athletic has caused tension between The Athletic’s leadership and the staff of its parent company, The New York Times.

Page Six originally posted photos of Russini with New England Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel on April 7. The two were seen holding hands and hugging at the Ambiente Sedona hotel in Arizona. 

The Athletic originally defended Russini.  

“These photos are misleading and lack essential context,” Steven Ginsberg, executive editor of The Athletic, said in a statement. “These were public interactions in front of many people. Dianna is a premier journalist covering the NFL, and we’re proud to have her at The Athletic.”

Despite this, The New York Times launched a formal investigation into the photos on April 11. Two days later, Russini announced that she would be stepping away from her job at The Athletic. 

“When the Page Six item first appeared, The Athletic supported me unequivocally, expressed confidence in my work and pride in my journalism. For that I am grateful,” Russini said. 

Page Six interviewed an anonymous source from The New York Times. The source was unhappy with how The Athletic handled the news initially.

“It was really embarrassing for the Times,” said one insider, who told us that after the story broke, it was a major talking point on various desks across the Times newsroom. “It raised a lot of concerns because it’s something that should be taken seriously and [the statement] made it seem as if they didn’t think it warranted investigation.”

Ginsberg revealed that The Athletic was also investigating the photos. However, he said the publication’s instinct was to defend its writer. 

He also said the investigation will continue even after Russini leaves The Athletic. He considers journalistic integrity an important part of The Athletic’s mission.