Italian television RAI apologizes to Jewish community

Italian public broadcaster RAI apologized to the Jewish community after a comment recommending to "avoid" the Israeli team was accidentally broadcast before the broadcast of the four-man bobsleigh competition at the Winter Olympics.

Viewers heard the phrase "Let's avoid crew number 21, that's the Israeli one," after which the sound was cut off.

RAI Director General Giampaolo Rossi described the incident as a serious violation of the principles of impartiality and respect. The broadcaster has launched an internal investigation and has not ruled out disciplinary measures.

The RAI board of directors called the statement unacceptable and apologized to the athletes and viewers concerned. The head of the sports section resigned this week after criticism of his commentary on the opening ceremony of the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics.

"We are confident that RAI management will take all necessary measures to prevent similar incidents from recurring," responded Israeli Ambassador Jonathan Peled.

(reuters, luc)