Swiss TV Network Takes Down Controversial Commentary on Israeli Bobsled Athlete’s Views During Winter Olympics
Swiss TV Network Removes Controversial Olympic Clip Featuring Israeli Athlete Commentary
A Swiss television network has removed a viral clip from its website that featured commentator Stefan Renna criticizing Israeli athlete A.J. Edelman for his remarks about the ongoing conflict in Gaza. The segment gained attention during the Winter Olympics, where Edelman, holding dual American and Israeli citizenship, participated in the two-man bobsled heats in Milan-Cortina, finishing in last place among 26 teams.
During the broadcast, Renna referenced Edelman’s statements regarding the war in Gaza, noting that he called the conflict the “most morally just” war in history and suggested that he mocked a Free Palestine demonstration. “Edelman, a first-time Olympian and self-defined ‘Zionist to the core,’ who has posted several messages on social media in support of the genocide in Gaza,” Renna stated, delivering the comments throughout Edelman’s bobsled run. Israel has denied accusations of genocide.
Renna also contrasted Edelman’s participation with the International Olympic Committee’s treatment of Vladyslav Heraskevych, a Ukrainian skeleton racer banned for honoring athletes killed in the war with Russia. “This just goes to show that sport is obviously eminently political,” he added.
Following the backlash, an RTS spokesperson explained, “Our journalist wanted to question the IOC’s policy regarding the athlete’s statements. However, such information, while factual, is inappropriate for sports commentary due to its length. Therefore, we removed the segment from our website last night.”
Edelman addressed the commentary on X/Twitter, referring to it as a “diatribe.” He noted, “I can’t help but notice the contrast: Shul Runnings is a team of 6 proud Israelis who’ve made it to the Olympic stage. No coach with us. No big program. Just a dream, grit, and unyielding pride in who we represent.”
He continued, emphasizing their determination: “Working together towards an incredible goal and crushing it. Because that’s what Israelis do. I don’t think it’s possible to witness that and give any credence to the commentary.”
Edelman also shared a remark from Mike Huckabee, the White House’s Ambassador to Israel, who described the RTS broadcast as evidence of “Jew-hating,” citing Renna’s remarks as “bigotry and bile” directed at the Israeli team during their competition.
Earlier this month, Edelman, who is originally from Massachusetts, conveyed to The Jewish Chronicle that the bobsled team has encountered hostility from rival competitors, including being labeled “baby killers.” He expressed pity for those who harbor such hatred, questioning, “Who has the energy to hate strangers all day?”
