Swiss Commentator Labels Israeli Bobsleigh Pilot ‘Zionist to the Core’ at Winter Olympics
February 17, 2026
Swiss sports commentator Stefan Reina sparked controversy during the 2026 Winter Olympics in Italy by sharply criticizing the Israeli bobsleigh team. On Monday, during the team’s run, Reina called pilot Adam Jeremy Edelman "a Zionist to the core." He highlighted Edelman’s social media posts supporting the war in Gaza and said, "He has posted several messages on social media supporting the genocide in Gaza." Reina cited the UN Commission of Inquiry’s use of the term "genocide" and quoted Edelman describing the military action as "the most just and moral war in history." Reina questioned the International Olympic Committee’s (IOC) policy. He said, "It raises questions" why athletes supporting wars are banned in some cases, like Russian athletes after the Ukraine conflict, but not Israel. Reina also mentioned Edelman cheering another Israeli athlete involved in military action in Gaza in 2023. The Israeli bobsleigh team finished last out of 26 teams. The video of Reina’s commentary spread widely online but was later removed from RTS’s YouTube channel. RTS said the commentary was "inappropriate for sports commentary due to its length" and was removed. Reina’s remarks received mixed reactions. Many sports fans and Palestinian supporters praised his courage. However, U.S. Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee accused Reina of anti-Semitism, calling his comments "spreading bigotry and hatred." The Zionist lobby group StopAntisemitism demanded Reina’s dismissal. Edelman replied on social media defending his team. He said, "The Scholl Runnings team consists of six proud Israelis who reached the Olympic podium ... We have no coach, no intensive training programme, just a dream, determination, and unwavering pride." The IOC has not issued a formal statement but reminded everyone of Olympic values. IOC spokesman Mark Adams said, "Specific comments by a commentator on one broadcast is a matter for the broadcaster." The incident highlights ongoing tensions between politics and sports at the global stage.
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Tags:
Winter Olympics 2026
Israeli Bobsleigh Team
Stefan Reina
Zionism
Gaza conflict
Ioc
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