Visa Denied for Child Rapist Steven van de Velde: Banned from Championships
A prominent Dutch beach volleyball player, Steven van de Velde, has been denied entry to Australia due to his criminal past. This decision comes ahead of the Beach Volleyball World Championships that will take place in Adelaide from November 14 to 23.
Visa Denied Following Criminal Conviction
On October 27, Australian authorities officially denied van de Velde’s visa application. The athlete, now 31, was previously convicted of raping a 12-year-old girl in 2014 when he was only 19. In 2016, he was sentenced to four years in prison but served just 13 months before his release in 2017.
Responses from Authorities
The situation has drawn significant attention, particularly from South Australia’s Attorney-General Kyam Maher. He expressed that van de Velde’s crimes were “utterly abhorrent” and firmly stated that foreign child sex offenders should not be allowed entry into Australia.
Australia’s Home Affairs Minister, Tony Burke, further emphasized the government’s commitment to ensuring safety for Australians, stating they will use every available tool to uphold community security.
Impact on the Team
Denial of van de Velde’s visa also affects his teammate Alexander Brouwer, who will not be able to participate in the upcoming championships. Heleen Crielaard, technical director of the Dutch volleyball association, acknowledged the risk of a visa denial and ensured that all necessary documentation was submitted in advance.
Career Highlights and Controversies
Despite his tumultuous past, van de Velde has had a notable career. He rose to prominence in 2011 by winning the Under-20 Dutch National Championships and later represented the Netherlands in the 2015 European Games. His participation in competitive events has sparked significant backlash from fans, especially during the 2024 Paris Olympic Games.
Van de Velde has candidly addressed the criticisms he faces, stating that questions about his past are valid. He expressed an understanding of the negative reactions he receives, demonstrating a level of acceptance regarding public opinion over his history.
This case highlights ongoing discussions about athlete conduct and the complexities of redemption within professional sports. The repercussions of van de Velde’s past continue to influence his career, particularly in high-stakes competitions like the forthcoming Beach Volleyball World Championships in Australia.
