What's happened
Israel's first-ever Olympic bobsleigh team finished last but celebrated their participation, representing Israel amid geopolitical tensions and theft setbacks. The team aims to inspire future athletes despite regional conflicts and protests, with some members making history in their sports.
What's behind the headline?
The Israeli team's journey underscores resilience in the face of adversity, including theft, underfunding, and geopolitical backlash. Edelman's leadership exemplifies a broader effort to establish Israel's presence in winter sports, challenging regional stereotypes. Their participation, despite not contending for medals, sets a precedent that could inspire future Israeli athletes. The protests and security issues highlight the complex intersection of sports and politics, but the team's perseverance emphasizes sport's role as a form of national representation and soft power. Their story will likely influence Israel's sports development and regional perceptions, with future success depending on increased support and infrastructure.
What the papers say
The Times of Israel highlights the team's pride and perseverance, emphasizing their historic participation and regional tensions. The Independent focuses on their struggles, including theft and underfunding, framing their effort as a testament to resilience. Both sources acknowledge the geopolitical backdrop, with The Times of Israel noting Edelman's comments on representing Israel and the protests against their presence, while The Independent emphasizes the personal sacrifices and the broader significance of their participation.
How we got here
Israel's participation in the 2026 Winter Olympics marks its first in bobsled, achieved after reallocation of a spot due to Britain's withdrawal. The team was assembled by AJ Edelman, Israel's first Olympic skeleton athlete, who recruited athletes from various sports amid funding and security challenges. The geopolitical context includes regional conflicts and protests against Israel's presence at the Games.
Go deeper
Common question
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Why Is Israel Sending a Bobsled Team to the Winter Olympics?
Israel's participation in the 2026 Winter Olympics, including a bobsled team, has sparked curiosity amid ongoing geopolitical tensions. Many wonder why Israel is competing in winter sports, especially when the country is more known for its summer Olympic success. This page explores the reasons behind Israel's Olympic efforts, the impact of current conflicts, and what this means for national pride and international relations.
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How Do Global Conflicts Like Gaza Impact Olympic Participation?
International conflicts such as the Gaza escalation often raise questions about how politics influence sports. Do countries pull out of the Olympics? Can athletes use the platform to make political statements? This page explores how geopolitical tensions shape Olympic teams and the broader role of sports in times of crisis.
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How Are Athletes from Israel Competing During Rising Tensions?
Despite escalating geopolitical tensions and recent conflicts, Israeli athletes are still competing at the 2026 Winter Olympics in Italy. Their participation raises important questions about resilience, security, and the role of sports in times of crisis. Below, we explore how these athletes are navigating the challenges and what their journey signifies in a tense geopolitical climate.
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How Are Athletes from Conflict Zones Competing in the Olympics?
Despite ongoing conflicts and geopolitical tensions, athletes from conflict zones continue to participate in the Olympics, showcasing resilience and determination. Their stories raise important questions about the role of sports in times of crisis, what motivates these athletes, and how their participation can inspire hope worldwide. Below, we explore these compelling stories and answer common questions about athletes competing amid conflict.
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How Did Israel's First Bobsleigh Team Perform at the Winter Olympics?
Israel's debut in Olympic bobsleigh at the 2026 Winter Games marked a historic moment for the country. Despite finishing last, the team’s participation is a significant milestone, highlighting their resilience amid regional tensions and logistical challenges. Many wonder how they managed to compete, what obstacles they faced, and what this means for Israel’s future in winter sports. Below, we explore the details of their journey and what lies ahead.
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