Paula Radcliffe Apologizes for Insensitive Remarks

Paula Radcliffe apologized after she wished a convicted rapist competing at the Olympics “the best of luck.” Steven van de Velde, who the Netherlands beach volleyball squad selected for Paris 2024, received a four-year prison sentence in 2016 for raping a 12-year-old British girl. After serving 12 months, he resumed his volleyball career. He joined the Dutch Olympic team in June.

However, Radcliffe’s comments on LBC radio sparked backlash. She said, “I know that he is married now and has settled down. I think it’s a tough thing to do to punish him twice, and if he’s managed to successfully turn his life around after being sent to prison and to qualify and to be playing sport at the highest level, then I actually wish him the best of luck.”

Subsequently, Radcliffe clarified her stance on social media. “I am mortified that I expressed it so badly and didn’t condemn the rape out loud,” she wrote. She acknowledged the importance of second chances but stated that the Olympics should be for those who uphold its ideals. She compared Van de Velde’s situation to doping offenders returning to sport after serving bans.

Meanwhile, the Dutch Olympic Committee (NOC) reported that Van de Velde received professional counseling after his release. They noted that he demonstrated self-insight and reflection. The Dutch Volleyball Federation (NeVoBo) allowed his return to the sport based on their guidelines.

Nevertheless, women’s safety groups, including Kyniska Advocacy criticized Van de Velde’s inclusion in the Games. They called on the International Olympic Committee (IOC) to disqualify him. Kyniska Advocacy’s CEO, Mhairi Maclennan, said Van de Velde’s participation goes against Olympic ideals and shatters the IOC’s vision of building “a better world through sport.”

Ultimately, Paula Radcliffe issued a second apology, expressing shame for her poorly expressed views and acknowledging the damage caused. She emphasized her deep regret and acknowledged the damage caused by her comments. She hoped her statement conveyed her sincere remorse.