Child rapist booed as Dutch team crash to defeat in the Olympic beach volleyball
Convicted child rapist Steven van de Velde faced loud boos as the Netherlands lost to Norway in the Olympic beach volleyball on Friday evening. Van de Velde, now 29, previously sentenced to four years in prison in 2016 for admitting three counts of rape against a 12-year-old British girl, was harshly received by the crowd at the Eiffel Tower Stadium.
Despite the result, the Dutch team secured a spot in the last 16, with one win and two losses in the matches so far. The inclusion of Van de Velde in the Dutch squad has been met with criticism from women’s and safeguarding groups, leading to a petition with over 135,000 signatures calling for his removal.
Child abuse campaigner Emma Jane Taylor expressed deep concerns about Van de Velde’s participation in the Olympics, pointing out the negative impact on survivors and the dangerous message it sends. While Van de Velde has expressed remorse for his actions in the past, the decision to allow him to compete in the Games has sparked controversy.
Amidst the backlash, Van de Velde is not staying in the Olympic village and will not engage in post-match media activities. He admitted that his actions were a grave mistake but emphasized the need to face the consequences.
The strong reaction from the crowd during the match underscores the public’s divided opinions on Van de Velde’s presence at an international sporting event of this magnitude. As the Dutch team progresses in the tournament, the spotlight on Van de Velde’s past continues to raise questions about accountability and the role of offenders in competitive sports.
