News Infographics and Slow Journalism in Líbero Football Magazine: From Hallmarks to Secondary Resources

This paper explores the use of infographics by Líbero magazine, which is a benchmark of design and the epitome of slow journalism in Spain. The aim is to pinpoint the characteristics and role of these graphic features at a time when visual data journalism is becoming crucial in sports publications. This case study is based on analysing all 52 issues published by Líbero throughout its history. The authors apply a triangulation methodology that combines several techniques: qualitative, including content analysis based on an ad hoc form, designed to formally describe the purposes of the infographics, along with semi-structured in-depth interviews; and qualitative techniques, used to address the statistical aspect. The findings indicate a regular presence of infographics in the early issues, which were complex and large, yet with a strong emphasis on international football matches. However, the last few years of the sample reflect a trend towards gradual simplification of the infographics, together with less frequent use. Data suggest infographics are used to create complex narratives with simple visual compositions in order to improve the reader’s understanding of data that accompanies a journalistic story. This is consistent with Líbero’s commitment to slow journalism, which focuses on detailed explanations and in-depth information.