In a controversial decision, Steven van de Velde, a convicted paedophile who raped a 12-year-old British girl, is poised to represent the Netherlands in beach volleyball at the upcoming Paris Olympics. The announcement has sparked outrage and raised serious concerns about child safeguarding.

Van de Velde, now 29, was sentenced to four years in prison in 2016 after admitting to three counts of rape against a child. The horrifying incidents occurred in August 2014 when he met the victim on Facebook and subsequently travelled from Amsterdam to the UK. He assaulted the child at her home in Milton Keynes while her mother was away.

Despite serving his sentence in the Netherlands, Van de Velde was released after just 12 months. Since 2018, he has resumed his volleyball career, competing in international tournaments alongside his partner, Matthew Immers. The Dutch Olympic Committee (NOC) defended their decision, citing Van de Velde’s demonstrated “self-insight and reflection” during his rehabilitation.

The NOC emphasised that Van de Velde met all qualification criteria for the Olympic Games. His return to the sport adhered to the “Guidelines Integrity Record” set by the Dutch Volleyball Federation (NeVoBo), which outlines conditions for athletes following a conviction.

The International Olympic Committee (IOC) clarified that individual team nominations fall under the sole responsibility of each National Olympic Committee.

However, Keeping Children Safe, an international non-profit organisation advocating for child safeguarding, expressed serious reservations. A spokesperson stated, “Child sexual abuse has lifelong impacts, and allowing a convicted child rapist to represent the Netherlands at the Paris Olympics is distressing for survivors worldwide.”

The potential for contact between Van de Velde and underage athletes also raises significant safeguarding concerns.

In interviews with Dutch media, Van de Velde expressed remorse, acknowledging that he cannot undo his actions. “It has been the biggest mistake of my life,” he said.

As the world’s attention turns to the Paris Olympics, the decision to include a convicted paedophile athlete remains a contentious issue, drawing scrutiny from international media.