Controversy Surrounds Israeli Bobsleigh Team at Winter Olympics

Israel's Olympic bobsleigh team has become embroiled in controversy following remarks made by an Italian commentator during a broadcast on RAI, Italy's state broadcaster. Ahead of the four-man bobsleigh event at the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, the commentator suggested, “Let’s avoid crew 21, which is Israeli.” This comment was either a hot mic incident or an intentional remark, though its exact context remains unclear. The incident prompted immediate apologies from RAI executives and a commitment to investigate the matter.

Times of IsraelReuters

Marco Lollobrigida, the interim director of RAI Sport, issued a formal apology, stating that the comment did not reflect the values of public service broadcasting. He emphasized that sport should unite rather than divide. Giampaolo Rossi, RAI's CEO, described the incident as a serious breach of impartiality and respect, and the RAI board condemned the remarks as unacceptable. An internal inquiry has been launched to determine accountability and potential disciplinary actions.

Reuters

This incident follows a similar controversy involving Swiss commentators during the two-man bobsleigh event, where commentator Stefan Renna criticized Israeli captain AJ Edelman’s support for Zionism and questioned his eligibility to compete. The Swiss broadcaster RTS later retracted the commentary from its platforms, acknowledging that while the content was factual, its length was inappropriate for a sporting event. In response to the backlash, the Olympic Committee of Israel demanded an apology from RTS and suggested Renna be removed from future broadcasts.

Times of Israel

The remarks made by the Italian commentator and the previous Swiss commentary have drawn significant criticism. Edelman responded to the situation on social media, expressing pride in his statements about Zionism and Israel, and thanking those who amplified his message. The union representing RAI journalists, Usigrai, has also criticized the earlier commentary by Paolo Petrecca, stating it severely damaged the broadcaster's credibility.

Reuters

As the Winter Olympics approach their conclusion, the Israeli bobsleigh team currently sits in 24th place out of 27 teams, with only the top 20 advancing to the next heat. Israeli skier Barnabas Szollos is set to carry the flag during the closing ceremony, representing the nation alongside the bobsleigh athletes.

Times of Israel

• “The off-air remark that was broadcast before the four-man bobsleigh race at the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics on RAI 2 contained an unacceptable expression that in no way represents the values of public service broadcasting or of RAI Sport,” — Marco Lollobrigida, Interim Director of RAI Sport

Times of Israel

• “RAI CEO Giampaolo Rossi said the incident represented a "serious" breach of the principles of impartiality, respect and inclusion that should guide the public broadcaster.” — Giampaolo Rossi, CEO of RAI

Reuters

• “In case there are any Swiss commentators waiting for their opportunity today — anything you quote me as saying about Zionism or how just Israel is, I’m proud I said. Thank you for spreading the message.” — AJ Edelman, Captain of the Israeli Bobsleigh Team

Times of Israel

This series of events highlights ongoing tensions surrounding the representation of Israeli athletes in international sports, raising questions about media conduct and the responsibilities of broadcasters.

Times of Israel