The Paris 2024 Olympics are off to a tumultuous start with the shocking inclusion of Steven van de Velde, a Dutch beach volleyball player convicted of raping a 12-year-old British girl in 2014. The outrage over his participation has sparked global condemnation and calls for the International Olympic Committee (IOC) to investigate.
Van de Velde, now 29, was convicted in 2016 at Aylesbury Crown Court for a planned and calculated assault on the young girl, whom he met online. He served only 12 months of a four-year sentence in the UK before being extradited to the Netherlands, where his sentence was drastically reduced due to differing legal definitions of consent.
Despite his criminal record, the Dutch Volleyball Association and the country’s Olympic committee have staunchly defended van de Velde’s inclusion in the team. They argue that he has met all the necessary qualifications and demonstrated exemplary behavior since his release. The committee has also arranged separate accommodations for him to minimize contact with other athletes.
The backlash has been fierce. Survivors’ groups and sexual violence charities have condemned his presence, calling it a grievous insult to victims of sexual violence. The Survivors Trust emphasized the lifelong trauma inflicted on his victim and criticized the Dutch authorities for their support of van de Velde. Rape Crisis England & Wales also blasted the decision, stating that it sends a dangerous message about accountability and impunity in cases of sexual violence.
High-profile figures have also been drawn into the controversy. Paula Radcliffe, the British marathon record-holder, faced backlash after initially wishing van de Velde “the best of luck” before retracting her statement and apologizing on social media. Matthew Immers, van de Velde’s playing partner, has defended him, describing their strong bond and dismissing concerns about his past.
The IOC is under increasing pressure to address the situation, with critics arguing that allowing a convicted rapist to compete undermines the values and integrity of the Olympic Games. As the Games progress, the controversy surrounding van de Velde’s participation continues to cast a shadow over what should be a celebration of global sporting excellence.
