Hidden Cameras Scandal Shakes Austrian Women's Football

A scandal has emerged in Austrian women's football following the discovery of hidden cameras in the changing rooms and showers of the SCR Altach women's team. A man accused of recording approximately 30 players is set to appear in court next week. The case has prompted significant concern and outrage within the sport, highlighting issues of safety and privacy for female athletes.

The Guardian

The allegations came to light when players learned about the recordings through media reports. An anonymous player expressed her shock, stating, “We were completely shocked. The rug was pulled from under our feet.” The players were subsequently called to a meeting to discuss the situation. The Public Prosecutor’s Office in Feldkirch is investigating the case, with the accused facing charges under sections 120 and 207a of the Austrian criminal code for misuse of recording devices and handling image-based sexual abuse material, respectively.

The Guardian

Michaela Schmidt, Austria's Minister of Sport, condemned the alleged actions, labeling them as “disgusting.” She emphasized the need for a thorough investigation and a complete overhaul of safety measures within the club. The SCR Altach organization has stated its commitment to supporting the affected players and has initiated cooperation with professional victim support organizations. Manuel Willam, an assistant to the board at Altach, confirmed that the club is working on developing additional protective measures in collaboration with the Austrian Football Association and the Austrian Sports Federation.

The Guardian

Claudia Koller, managing director of 100% Sport, highlighted the challenges of implementing effective prevention strategies in sports. She stressed the importance of transparent safeguarding policies and the need for visible resources to protect athletes. Schmidt echoed this sentiment, asserting that “everyone in sport deserves to be protected from boundary violations, abuse of power or sexual harassment.” She called for significant improvements in prevention measures to ensure that such incidents do not recur.

The Guardian

The SCR Altach club is expected to present increased security measures in March, as part of their ongoing response to the scandal. Schmidt has indicated that the Altach case serves as a critical learning opportunity for Austrian sports, urging a collective effort to prevent future violations. The case continues to unfold, with potential civil lawsuits from affected players also on the horizon.

The Guardian

• “She said: “If female athletes are not even safe in their own dressing rooms because of an official then they have nowhere to stand on.” — Michaela Schmidt, Minister of Sport

The Guardian

• “A safeguarding policy must be communicated and be completely transparent,” — Claudia Koller, Managing Director of 100% Sport

The Guardian

• “One thing is for sure: this will take a long time … There are better and worse days. But my thoughts are of course often on this case. And when that happens you think about how disgusting and grim it is what has been going on here.” — Anonymous Altach Player

The Guardian

This scandal has not only shaken the SCR Altach women's team but has also raised broader questions about the safety and treatment of female athletes in sports across Austria.

The Guardian