Press release templates
Embargoed release press release template and example
A free, copy-and-paste embargoed release press release template, with headline formulas, a checklist of what to include and who to send it to.
When to use an embargoed release press release
Use an embargoed press release when you want journalists to prepare a story in advance but publish at an agreed time. It is common for research, results and major launches.
Free embargoed release press release template
Copy the template, replace everything in square brackets, and cut anything that does not apply.
EMBARGOED UNTIL [00:01 GMT], [Day, Date] [Headline] [Subheadline] [CITY], [Date] — [Lead paragraph with the full news, written as it should appear when published.] [Supporting paragraphs with data, context and background.] "[Quote]," said [Name], [Title] at [Organisation]. Notes to editors - This release and all attached materials are under embargo until [time, timezone, date]. - [Name] is available for interviews before the embargo lifts. - [Link to embargoed materials.] Media contact [Name] | [Email] | [Phone] ###
Headline formulas
EMBARGOED UNTIL [time, timezone, date]: [Headline]UNDER EMBARGO: [Organisation] study finds [finding]
What to include
- The exact embargo date, time and timezone at the very top
- The full story as it should be published
- Assets such as data, images or the paper, also marked embargoed
- Interview availability before the embargo lifts
- A contact for questions
Tips before you send
- Ask reporters to agree to the embargo before sending the material.
- Put the embargo in the subject line, at the top of the release and on every attachment.
A release is not a pitch
Journalists rarely open a release sent to a mass list. Send a short personal email to each reporter, with the news in the first line and the release pasted below it. The InsightFuse PR agent writes those personal pitches for you and sends them one by one from your own inbox.
Who to send an embargoed release press release to
These are the journalists most likely to cover this kind of announcement. Browse by beat and country, then build your list in the app.
More press release templates
Frequently asked questions
What does embargoed press release mean?
It means journalists receive the news in advance but agree not to publish before a specific date and time.
How do you write an embargoed press release?
Put "EMBARGOED UNTIL" with the exact time, timezone and date at the top, then write the release as it should be published.
Get started
Find the reporters who’ll cover you — free.
Search 799,000+ journalists by beat, outlet and country, then let the PR agent write and send the pitches. No credit card.