Olympics Broadcaster Under Fire for 'Genocide' Comments About Israeli Bobsledder

Swiss commentator accused Israeli athlete Adam Edelman of supporting 'genocide' during live broadcast of Winter Games

Published on Feb. 19, 2026

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The Israeli Minister of Culture and Sports condemned a Swiss broadcaster after one of its commentators accused Israeli bobsledder Adam Edelman of supporting 'genocide' during live coverage of the Winter Olympics. The commentator made several allegations about Edelman's social media posts and military service, questioning whether he should be allowed to compete. Edelman, a dual U.S.-Israeli citizen, defended his team's accomplishments and pride in representing Israel.

Why it matters

The incident highlights the political tensions that can arise during international sporting events, where athletes are sometimes thrust into geopolitical debates. It also raises questions about the role of media commentary in shaping perceptions of athletes and potentially crossing ethical lines.

The details

During Monday's broadcast of the men's bobsleigh event, Swiss commentator Stefan Renna accused Israeli athlete Adam Edelman of posting 'several messages on social networks in support of genocide in Gaza' and mocking a 'free Palestine' inscription. Renna questioned whether Edelman should be allowed to compete based on the IOC's policy about athletes who 'actively supported the war.' Edelman, who moved to Israel 10 years ago, defended his team's accomplishments and pride in representing Israel.

  • On February 17, 2026, the incident occurred during live coverage of the Winter Olympics in Milan Cortina.

The players

Miki Zohar

The Israeli Minister of Culture and Sports who condemned the Swiss broadcaster's comments and called on the IOC to take action.

Adam Edelman

An Israeli bobsledder and dual U.S.-Israeli citizen who competed in the Winter Olympics and defended his team's accomplishments on social media.

Stefan Renna

A commentator for the Swiss RTS broadcaster who made the controversial remarks about Edelman during live coverage of the bobsleigh event.

Mike Huckabee

The U.S. Ambassador to Israel who condemned the 'Jew-hating Swiss 'sportscaster' for his 'bigotry & bile' during the broadcast.

International Olympic Committee (IOC)

The governing body of the Olympic Games that has a policy about excluding athletes who 'actively supported the war' through their social media or military engagement.

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What they’re saying

“It is unacceptable that broadcasting unions around the world disgrace Israeli athletes and portray them as supporters of genocide and call for their disqualification. I stand with Israeli athlete Adam Edelman and call on the International Olympic Committee to condemn the remarks of the Swiss Broadcasting Corporation and keep the Winter Olympics free of politics.”

— Miki Zohar, Israeli Minister of Culture and Sports

“I am aware of the diatribe the commentator directed towards the Israeli Bobsled Team on the Swiss Olympics broadcast today. I can't help but notice the contrast: Shul Runnings is a team of 6 proud Israelis who've made it to the Olympic stage. No coach with us. No big program. Just a dream, grit, and unyielding pride in who we represent. I don't think it's possible to witness that and give any credence to the commentary. We look forward to our final 2man run and then crushing the 4man event, our specialty.”

— Adam Edelman (X (Twitter)

“The Jew-hating Swiss 'sportscaster' spewed bigotry & bile. His remarks during the live broadcast were beyond disgusting.”

— Mike Huckabee, U.S. Ambassador to Israel

What’s next

The International Olympic Committee is expected to review the incident and determine if any disciplinary action should be taken against the Swiss broadcaster or commentator.

The takeaway

This controversy underscores the delicate balance between politics and sports, and the need for media coverage of international athletic events to remain objective and free from biased rhetoric. It serves as a reminder that the Olympics should be a celebration of sportsmanship and unity, not a platform for divisive political statements.