Steven Van de Velde, a Dutch volleyball player, gained international attention for his participation in the 2024 Paris Olympics, despite his criminal past. In 2014, at the age of 19, Van de Velde was convicted of raping a 12-year-old British girl in Milton Keynes. He was sentenced to four years in prison but served only 12 months before resuming his sports career.
Controversial Olympic Participation
Van de Velde’s presence at the Paris Olympics sparked significant controversy. Selected by the Dutch team under the belief that he had paid his debt to society, Van de Velde faced severe backlash from the public. His team, including partner Matthew Immers, was eliminated in the round of 16 on August 4. The athlete’s participation was met with boos and strong reactions from the audience.
Emotional Interview
Steven van de Velde raped a 12-year-old girl. He is an Olympic LOSER. No one feels sorry for you, you little bitch. https://t.co/0sSPrbVTES
— shabazx (@Shabazx76542347) August 13, 2024
In his first interview since the Olympics, Van de Velde broke down in tears, expressing deep regret for his past actions. Speaking to a Dutch newspaper, he admitted that he had considered not competing at all. “I definitely thought about it, yes. I did something wrong, ten years ago. I have to accept that,” he said. He also criticized media coverage of his case, emphasizing the emotional toll it had on his family.
International Olympic Committee’s Stance
The International Olympic Committee (IOC) stated that it had no authority to prevent Van de Velde’s participation, as he qualified through standard procedures. Despite calls from victim advocates to exclude him from the games, the IOC maintained that it was unable to intervene in the Netherlands’ decision to send him as a competitor.
Life After Conviction
Since his release, Van de Velde has worked to rebuild his life. He married German volleyball player Kim Behrens in 2022, and the couple has a son. Behrens, who is also a police officer, has shared their family life on social media, highlighting their relationship and the support she provides.
Conclusion
Van de Velde’s emotional interview and the controversy surrounding his Olympic participation reflect ongoing debates about redemption and public figures with criminal backgrounds. The backlash he faced in Paris underscores the complex and often contentious nature of such cases.
