Before facing the unfortunate scandal during their loss against Morocco, the Argentine national team encountered an odd incident on July 23. Just a day before their Olympic debut at Paris 2024, Thiago Almada reported that valuables including a watch and rings went missing during a training session. In a post-match interview, coach Javier Mascherano expressed disappointment, stating, “We didn’t want to raise the issue after practice, but it’s now out in the open. We don’t like these things happening. We don’t expect an advantage, but we also don’t want to be made fools of, as happened today.”
The theft took place while the players were taking showers, raising questions about the security measures in place at the event. Mascherano pointed out the contradiction in strict security checks for access to the locker room, noting that even staff members sometimes had trouble entering.
As the hours went by, details of the incident started to surface. According to reports from AFP, Almada’s initial estimate of the loss primarily involved jewelry, with the total amount reaching approximately €50,000. A judicial source confirmed that there were no signs of forced entry or break-in at the location of the theft, according to BFMTV, adding that the current assessment of damages relies solely on Almada’s testimony.
Despite the concerning situation, no formal police report has been lodged yet. It is anticipated that Almada will officially confirm the value of his losses before authorities soon. The absence of any signs of tampering or intrusion in the locker room has raised alarm bells about the safety of athletes and their belongings during international competitions.
In another troubling incident unrelated to France, Olympic BMX Freestyle champion Logan Martin reported a similar theft in Brussels, where he was finalizing his training camp. “We were robbed in the van last night. Thankfully, my bikes weren’t inside, but several bags were,” he lamented, commenting on the chaotic start to his journey. Martin shared a video on social media showing the disarray inside his vehicle, complete with a broken window and a conversation with police.
Fortunately, some of the stolen items, including a massage table and a helmet, were recovered hours later thanks to a tracking device placed in the luggage.
These incidents highlight the vulnerabilities athletes face regarding their personal belongings during international competitions. Sports communities and local authorities are now on high alert to prevent such occurrences in the future and ensure a safe environment for all competitors.
Image and News Source: https://www.infobae.com/deportes/2024/07/25/los-detalles-del-robo-que-sufrio-thiago-almada-antes-del-escandalo-en-la-caida-de-la-seleccion-ante-marruecos-el-monto-estimado-de-la-perdida/
