History of Steven van de Velde in Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: July 29, 2024

Steven van de Velde is a Dutch beach volleyball player who was convicted of child rape in 2016. Despite his conviction, he has qualified for the 2024 Summer Olympics, and the Dutch Olympic Committee is supporting his nomination, which has generated controversy.

August 1994: Steven van de Velde is born

Steven van de Velde was born in August 1994.

2011: Under-20 Dutch National Championship Win

In 2011, Van de Velde won the Under-20 Dutch National Championships.

August 2014: Rape of a Minor

In August 2014, 19-year-old van de Velde raped a 12-year-old girl he met on Facebook. This event led to his arrest and conviction.

2015: Representation at the European Games

Van de Velde represented the Netherlands at the 2015 European Games with partner Michiel van Dorsten.

January 2016: Extradition and Arrest

In January 2016, van de Velde was extradited to the United Kingdom and arrested for the rape of a minor.

March 2016: Guilty Plea and Sentencing

In March 2016, van de Velde pleaded guilty to three counts of child rape. He received a four-year prison sentence.

2016: Conviction for Child Rape

In 2016, Steven van de Velde was convicted of child rape.

2017: Post-Release Comments and Condemnation

After his release in 2017, van de Velde made controversial comments about the reporting on his crimes. His lack of remorse drew condemnation from organizations like the NSPCC.

2018: Third Place Finish at FIVB Beach Volleyball World Tour

In 2018, Van de Velde and Dirk Boehlé secured third place at the Blooming Beach Aalsmeer, part of the FIVB Beach Volleyball World Tour.

2018: Return to Competition and Public Apology

In 2018, van de Velde returned to international competition and publicly apologized for his past actions, referring to them as the "biggest mistake of his life."

June 2024: Olympic Qualification and Controversy

In June 2024, van de Velde qualified for the Olympics, but the Dutch Olympic Committee decided to isolate him from other athletes and media due to his past conviction.