The Israeli bobsleigh team recently faced a significant setback when they were robbed of several thousand dollars worth of equipment and personal belongings, including their passports, in their accommodation prior to departing for the 2026 Olympics in Milan Cortina. This incident was confirmed by Mark Adams, spokesperson for the International Olympic Committee, who stated that the burglary took place at a pre-Games lodging. Team member AJ Edelman expressed his dismay over the theft via social media, highlighting the high stakes and challenges faced in the lead-up to the prestigious event.

Although the exact location of the burglary was not disclosed by Edelman, Italian media have reported that it did not occur in Italy, and some speculations have suggested that it might have happened in Prague. This unfortunate incident raises concerns about athlete security and the potential ramifications for the Israeli team's preparations for the Olympics, as losing essential equipment and travel documents can severely impact their performance and participation.

As the team members work to recover from this theft, the incident emphasizes the need for heightened security measures for athletes during international competitions. The team's situation will likely attract media attention and could lead to discussions regarding the safety protocols in place for Olympic athletes as they train and travel before the games, setting a precedent for future events.