IOC urged to investigate convicted child abuser’s participation in Paris Games

Van de Velde allegedly raped a 12-year-old girl in 2014, when he was 19. According to authorities, he met the girl online and flew from Amsterdam to London shortly afterwards to have sexual relations with her, despite knowing her age. In 2016, he was convicted of rape and sentenced to four years in prison.

However, after serving 12 months behind bars in Britain, he was transferred to the Netherlands, where he was re-sentenced. He was released about a month later. After his time in prison, he told a local media outlet that he was not a paedophile.

The Dutch Volleyball Association subsequently gave him permission to compete again, which ultimately led to him qualifying for this summer’s Games, together with his partner. Matthew Immersion.

However, the IOC is now facing criticism for allowing him to set foot on the sand at the picturesque competition field near the Eiffel Tower… with Ciara Bergmanthe CEO of Rape Crisis England & Wales, calling for an official investigation into the matter.

“If you can rape a child and still compete in the Olympics, despite all the athletes signing a statement promising to be role models, it’s just shocking,” Bergman said. according to The Guardian.

“How did we get to this point? How did we get to a point where raping a child is considered less important than the medal that someone might win at the Olympics? It’s just extraordinary. I think there needs to be some kind of investigation into this and how this could happen. It needs to be a moment for real reflection and real change.”

The Dutch Olympic Committee has announced BBC It continues to stick to its decision to include Van de Velde in the case. According to officials, he has “sought and received professional guidance” since his conviction.

“Van de Velde has always remained transparent about the case, which he calls the biggest mistake of his life. He deeply regrets the consequences of his actions for those involved.”

Pieter van den HoogenbandChef de mission for the Dutch Olympic team of 2024, He also pointed out that Van De Velde has taken part in various competitions since his conviction, including World Cups.