Full Breakdown
Israeli Bobsled Team Faces Political Backlash at Milan Cortina Olympics
2/22/2026, 9:03:03 PM
Historic Participation Amidst Controversy
The Israeli Olympic bobsled team, led by captain AJ Edelman, made history by becoming the first Israeli bobsled team to compete in the Winter Olympics, held in Milan Cortina. Despite facing significant challenges, including financial sacrifices and political backlash, the team aimed to inspire their nation. Edelman, who identifies as a "Zionist to the core," has been vocal about his pride in representing Israel, especially in light of recent military conflicts involving the country.
Adversity Before the Games
Edelman and his team encountered numerous obstacles leading up to the Olympics. They faced a burglary at their hotel in Prague, where they were staying before traveling to Italy. Edelman noted that they had previously been turned away from accommodations due to their Jewish identity. Additionally, the team received negative comments from other athletes, including derogatory remarks about Israel. Despite these challenges, Edelman emphasized the importance of their participation, stating, "We view ourselves right now entirely as athletes."
Political Commentary During Competition
During the men's two-man bobsled competition on February 16, 2024, a politically charged commentary from Swiss broadcaster RTS sparked controversy. Presenter Stefan Renna criticized Edelman and his team, referencing their military service and questioning their eligibility to compete. The broadcast was later removed, but not before it reached a wide audience. Edelman responded to the commentary, expressing disappointment and reiterating his commitment to his beliefs, stating, "I believe Israel is just. I believe it's a force for good."
Performance and Reception
The Israeli team finished 26th in the two-man bobsled event, falling short of their goal to place in the top 20. Despite this, Edelman regarded their participation as a success, highlighting the symbolic significance of their presence at the Olympics. The team had narrowly missed qualifying for the previous Olympics in Beijing and faced additional challenges after the October 7, 2023, attacks, which led many athletes to serve in the military. Edelman reflected on the overwhelming support from fans in Israel, which motivated the team throughout their journey.
Reflections on the Olympic Journey
As the Olympics concluded, Edelman reflected on his decade-long pursuit of Olympic participation. He expressed mixed feelings about the end of this chapter, stating, "I still haven't processed really being here." He acknowledged the emotional weight of achieving his goal and the uncertainty of what comes next. Edelman emphasized the importance of their representation, saying, "When they think back on it, they probably won't remember you... but they'll remember the country was represented."
Official Statements & Responses
Edelman has consistently defended his team's right to compete and their identity as athletes. He has expressed pride in their accomplishments and the message they convey to the next generation of Israelis. The team’s journey has resonated with many, reinforcing the idea that sports can transcend political divides.
Criticism & Opposition
The commentary from RTS and the negative sentiments expressed by some athletes highlight the ongoing tensions surrounding Israel's military actions and their impact on international perceptions. Critics argue that the presence of Israeli athletes at global events can be contentious, particularly in light of recent conflicts.
Verbatim Quotes
- “This individual clearly pre-wrote a diatribe timed to two minutes, you know, the entirety of our run. I just think it's so sad, I don't know how you can live like that,” — AJ Edelman, Captain of the Israeli Bobsled Team
- “Israelis are Israelis. What they do in the service of the country is always going to define who they are,” — AJ Edelman
- “On a personal level, I've dealt with so much worse. I said those things. I said I'm a Zionist, I said I'm proud of Ward [Fawarseh], who served. I said that. I said what I said. I believe Israel is just. I believe it's a force for good. I stand for that force for good. I represent that force for good. So when someone just says that I represent evil or I am evil for representing what I represent, it's like water off the back.” — AJ Edelman
- “The reception of the team has been overwhelming,” — AJ Edelman
