The partner of Steven van de Velde, the Dutch volleyball player cleared to compete at the Paris Games despite prior rape convictions, has come forward with a strong show of support for his teammate. Matthew Immers, Van de Velde's playing partner, described him as a supportive figure akin to a second father, emphasizing their strong bond both on and off the field.

The decision to allow Van de Velde to participate at the Olympics has ignited heated debates and drawn formidable criticism from various quarters. While some argue that his past actions should preclude him from such an esteemed event, others within the Dutch delegation, including Immers and Pieter van den Hoogenband, the Dutch chef de mission in Paris, have stood firmly by their teammate.

The Dutch Olympic Committee and the country's volleyball federation have stated that Van de Velde met all the necessary qualifications and undergone supervised rehabilitation, leading to his selection for the Games. However, this decision has been met with staunch opposition from advocacy groups highlighting the discrepancy between Olympic ideals and Van de Velde's criminal history.

Rival nations have pointed out their strict policies against selecting athletes with criminal records, highlighting the diverse approaches taken by National Olympic Committees. The controversy surrounding Van de Velde's participation underscores the complex ethical considerations at play in the world of sports and the differing opinions on accountability for past actions.

As the spotlight shifts to the upcoming beach volleyball matches featuring Van de Velde, the discourse surrounding his presence at the Games continues to captivate global attention, raising broader questions about the intersection of personal history and sporting excellence on the Olympic stage.

**Source: [The Telegraph](https://www.telegraph.co.uk/olympics/2024/07/23/dutch-rapist-steven-van-de-veldes-partner-paris-olympics/)**