Swiss TV's Controversial Commentary on Israeli Bobsled Team Sparks Outrage
Switzerland's public broadcaster has taken down a Winter Olympics clip from its website after a journalist's commentary during an Israeli bobsled team's run ignited a fierce backlash. The incident, which occurred on Monday, involved commentator Stefan Renna referencing past social media posts by bobsled pilot AJ Edelman that supported the conflict in Gaza, alongside International Olympic Committee eligibility rules.
Broadcaster's Response and Removal of Clip
In a statement released on Tuesday, the French-language public broadcaster RTS acknowledged that the journalist was questioning IOC policy in relation to the athlete's public comments. However, RTS stated that such information, while factual, was inappropriate within a sports commentary due to its length. Consequently, the broadcaster removed the clip from its website on Monday night, citing the need to maintain focus on athletic performance rather than political discourse.
Details of the Commentary and Broader Context
The two-minute commentary also cited a report commissioned by the United Nations Human Rights Council, which concluded last year that Israel committed genocide—a finding Israel disputed as "distorted and false." Renna further referenced the IOC disqualifying Ukraine skeleton racer Vladyslav Heraskevych for wearing a helmet with pictures of athletes and coaches killed during the Russian invasion, noting that political issues have surfaced at every Olympic Games.
Athlete's Reaction and Olympic Debut
AJ Edelman, the Boston-born athlete piloting the Israeli bobsled team branded "Shul Runnings" in tribute to Jamaica's 1988 debut, responded to the commentary late Monday via social media. After placing 26th in the two-man bob competition—marking Israel's Olympic debut in the sport—Edelman emphasized the team's dedication and pride. He wrote, "No coach with us. No big program. Just a dream, grit, and unyielding pride in who we represent," adding that witnessing their effort should discredit the commentary.
International Reactions and IOC Stance
The commentary was described as "beyond disgusting" by United States ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee in a social media post. Meanwhile, IOC spokesman Mark Adams addressed the incident on Tuesday, stating it was not a question for the committee at this stage and directing inquiries to the broadcaster. RTS, as the local public network for the IOC's home city Lausanne, faced scrutiny over its editorial decisions during the Games.
Future Competitions and Ongoing Impact
Edelman was scheduled to resume the two-man competition later Tuesday at the sliding track in Cortina d'Ampezzo and is also set to pilot a crew in the four-man competition starting on Saturday. The controversy highlights the delicate balance between sports commentary and political issues, raising questions about media responsibility during global events like the Olympics.
