During the Paris Olympics, a group of antisemitic protesters shouted “Heil Hitler” at the Israeli men’s soccer team as they were preparing to compete against Paraguay. The incident occurred on Saturday night, July 27, at the Parc des Princes. The protesters booed the team while they stood for their national anthem, waved Palestinian flags, and performed Nazi salutes.
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Pro-#Hamas protesters holding #Palestinian flags made #Nazi salutes and shouted “#Heil #Hitler” during a soccer match between #Israel and #Paraguay at the #Paris #Olympics. They hold Palestinian flags and make these gestures during Israel’s national anthem, ‘#Hatikva.’ pic.twitter.com/jWiALYoe6k
— Lapo Pontecorvi (@LapoPontecorvi) July 29, 2024
Some protesters displayed a large sign with the words “Genocide Olympics.” They were eventually removed from the stadium, and no major disruptions were reported. Israel lost to Paraguay 4-2 in the Group D match.
“During the men’s football match between Israel and Paraguay at the Parc des Princes on July 27, a banner bearing a political message was displayed, and anti-Semitic gestures were made,” a Paris Olympic organiser told Sky News. “Paris 2024 strongly condemns these acts. A complaint has been lodged by Paris 2024, which is at the disposal of the authorities to assist with the investigation.”
This incident is not the first time the Israeli soccer team has faced hostility during the Olympics. On July 24, protesters waved Palestinian flags and booed the team during their anthem before their match against Mali.
Head coach Guy Luzon stated that the team would use these demonstrations as motivation to perform better. “Bring on the loudest protests,” Luzon told Ynet News. “They will make us try harder.”
French police have launched an investigation after three Israeli athletes at the Olympic Games reportedly received death threats. Ensuring the safety of the Israeli team has become a top priority for Olympic organizers. Elite tactical units are escorting the athletes to and from events in Paris, and they have been provided with 24-hour protection.
