History of Steven van de Velde in Timeline
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.
July 2024: Olympic Debut and Public Reaction
Van de Velde made his Olympic debut in July 2024, facing mixed reactions from the crowd, including boos and applause.
2024: Qualification for the 2024 Summer Olympics
Steven van de Velde qualified for the 2024 Summer Olympics. This decision was met with controversy due to his prior conviction.
2024: Controversial Olympic Selection and Isolation
Van de Velde's selection for the 2024 Olympics sparked controversy. The Dutch Olympic Committee isolated him to manage the situation.