RTS removes segment questioning Adam Edelman’s presence at Games amid backlash.
Swiss public broadcaster Radio Television Suisse (RTS) removed a bobsleigh commentary from its website after a reporter criticized an Israeli athlete during an Olympic broadcast.
The remarks were made during the two-man bobsleigh run of Adam Edelman and Chen Menachem on Monday.
Commentator Stefan Renna questioned Edelman’s presence at the Games, referencing the athlete’s public support for Israel’s military actions and suggesting this could conflict with International Olympic Committee (IOC) rules regarding political statements.
Broadcaster Responds After Backlash
RTS stated that while the journalist sought to raise questions about IOC policy, the length and tone of the commentary were inappropriate for a sports broadcast context.
“For this reason, we removed the segment from our website,” the broadcaster said.
A recording of the remarks, however, continued circulating on social media platforms.
The International Olympic Committee said inquiries about broadcasters’ comments should be directed to the respective media organizations.
The International Bobsleigh and Skeleton Federation has not issued a statement.Swiss public broadcaster Radio Television Suisse (RTS) removed a bobsleigh commentary from its website after a reporter criticized an Israeli athlete during an Olympic broadcast.
The remarks were made during the two-man bobsleigh run of Adam Edelman and Chen Menachem on Monday.
Commentator Stefan Renna questioned Edelman’s presence at the Games, referencing the athlete’s public support for Israel’s military actions and suggesting this could conflict with International Olympic Committee (IOC) rules regarding political statements.
Broadcaster Responds After Backlash
RTS stated that while the journalist sought to raise questions about IOC policy, the length and tone of the commentary were inappropriate for a sports broadcast context.
“For this reason, we removed the segment from our website,” the broadcaster said.
A recording of the remarks, however, continued circulating on social media platforms.
The International Olympic Committee said inquiries about broadcasters’ comments should be directed to the respective media organizations.
The International Bobsleigh and Skeleton Federation has not issued a statement.
Edelman, who was born in the United States and represents Israel, responded on social media, calling the remarks a “diatribe.”
He emphasized the team’s journey to the Olympic stage, highlighting limited resources and the determination behind their participation.
The incident has fueled discussion over the boundaries between sports commentary and political discourse, particularly at major international events where athletes often become symbolic representatives of their nations.
Ongoing Debate
The controversy underscores broader tensions around political expression in sports arenas. Olympic rules generally prohibit overt political statements during competition, but interpretation and enforcement remain complex.
As of now, no disciplinary action has been announced, and the focus returns to competition on the ice rather than commentary off it.
