BBC pundit forced to apologise over Paris Olympics anthem gaffe as fans blame channel for ‘awkward situation’
KATE RICHARDSON-WALSH was forced to apologise over an anthem gaffe at the Paris Olympics.
The pundit was part of the BBC’s coverage of the men’s hockey on Saturday morning.
Ahead of the pool match between Team GB and Spain, Richardson-Walsh could be heard speaking over the national anthems.
The 2016 Olympic champion later took to social media to apologise, though.
Posting on X, she wrote: “I’m so sorry I was talking over the national anthems today before the GB v Spain men’s hockey game on the BBC today.
“I felt all I could do was note my feelings and apologise. In hindsight perhaps I should have paused. Please know this completely cut across my values.”
However, fans were sympathetic towards Richardson-Walsh, instead pointing blame at the broadcaster.
One viewer commented: “Put into an awkward situation. Timing was off from production POV. I don’t think anyone should see beyond that.”
Another added: “You handled it professionally, made reference to it – don’t worry at all.”
A third fan also wrote: “Not your fault and you handled it brilliantly.”
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Richardson-Walsh captained Team GB to gold in Rio eight years ago, having also won bronze at London 2012.
Team GB’s men’s side went on to beat Spain 4-0 in their opening match.
They are back in action against South Africa on Sunday as they chase a first medal since winning gold at the 1988 games.
Meanwhile, the women’s team play their first match against Spain on Sunday.