Convicted sex offender embarrasses Olympics
Dutch athlete Steven van de Velde is the most controversial figure at these Olympic Games. Ten years ago, the 29-year-old had raped a 12-year-old girl. His first appearance in Paris caused quite a stir.
The first appearance of Dutch beach volleyball player Steven van de Velde at the Olympic Games in Paris caused quite a commotion in the audience. The convicted sex offender was booed before his debut match with teammate Matthew Immers on Sunday. The Dutch team lost 1:2 against the Italian duo Alex Ranghieri/Adrian Carambula.
Steven van de Velde was initially welcomed with applause at the Beach Volleyball Stadium under the Eiffel Tower. Many Dutch fans were present. The cheers turned into boos when van de Velde was personally introduced. The start of the 29-year-old at the Summer Games is a major controversy. Nearly 95,000 people had signed an online petition by Sunday afternoon, urging the IOC to exclude the athlete. His nomination had already caused quite a stir.
Van de Velde was sentenced to four years in prison in England in 2016 for raping a 12-year-old girl in 2014. After serving part of his sentence, he returned to the Netherlands. His sentence was adjusted to Dutch law, and he was released after 13 months. "I did what I did. I can't undo it. It was the biggest mistake of my life," he once said.
The Dutch Olympic Committee (NOCNSF) took action for the Games. Van de Velde was housed outside the Olympic Village on his own request and would not speak to the press. The NOCNSF regretted "the impact that the renewed focus on the past of Dutch beach volleyball player Steven van de Velde has had for many people," they stated. The association was taking "measures to ensure as much peace as possible."
Van de Velde now studies psychology at the University of Heerlen. He is married to Kim Behrens, sister of German football national player Kevin Behrens. Together they have a child.
During the Olympic Games 2024 in Paris, the presence of Dutch athlete Steven van de Velde in beach volleyball caused widespread controversy. Despite his conviction for raping a 12-year-old girl ten years ago, he participated in the Olympic Games, stirring up strong reactions.
