Swiss Broadcast Regulator Finds Commentary on Israeli Bobsledder Discriminatory

Switzerland’s Independent Complaints Authority for Radio and Television (ICA) has ruled that a sports commentator’s remarks regarding an Israeli bobsledder during the Milano Cortina Winter Olympics violated discrimination regulations. A panel voted 5-4 to uphold complaints against a broadcast by Radio Television Suisse (RTS) from February 16.

The Incident

During the bobsleigh event, commentator Stefan Reina focused his broadcast on pilot Adam Jeremy Edelman, labeling him “a Zionist to the core” and citing the athlete's social media posts regarding the conflict in Gaza. Reina questioned Edelman’s eligibility to compete, suggesting that the athlete's political views and public support for military action should have disqualified him from the Games.

Findings of the ICA

Following a review, the ICA stated:

• The commentary appeared to be prepared in advance and suggested the athlete should be excluded based on his views.
• The remarks created a “stigmatising” and “discriminatory” message directed specifically at the Israeli athlete.
• The broadcast subjected the athlete to unequal treatment, violating the prohibition against discrimination.

Next Steps and Reactions

At the time of the broadcast, Edelman characterized the commentary as a "diatribe." The Israeli embassy in Switzerland expressed being “deeply appalled,” calling for apologies and action. RTS subsequently removed the segment from its website. The ICA, which oversees compliance with standards regarding diversity and the protection of minorities, will publish its full written reasoning at a later date. Broadcasters found in breach are typically required to implement measures to prevent future violations. Appeals against the ICA’s ruling can be filed with the Swiss Federal Supreme Court.