Winter Olympics Chaos: Store Employee Refuses to Serve Israeli Fans, Screams 'Free Palestine' | WATCH
An official Milano Cortina 2026 merchandise store employee has been terminated after targeting fans of Israel's Olympic team with political slogans. Organizing committees and local police intervened at the Cortina Sliding Centre following the viral confrontation.
An employee at an official merchandise store during the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics was removed from his shift and later terminated after shouting "Free Palestine" at a group of fans supporting Israel's Olympic team, witnesses and organizers said on Saturday.
The incident occurred around midday local time on Friday at the store in the Cortina Sliding Centre, where sliding events are held. The fans, some of whom were not Israeli citizens, had entered to buy souvenirs while displaying Israeli flags and team-branded items.
Video footage shared on social media shows the employee, identified as Ali Mohamed Hassan, refusing service and repeating "Free Palestine" after being confronted by one of the fans, who began recording. The exchange lasted under 30 seconds, with the fan stating: "This is the Olympics. Israel is allowed to compete just like any other country."
Local police were called to the scene, de-escalated the situation and escorted the group out. Hassan was immediately pulled aside by store management.
The Milano Cortina 2026 organizing committee confirmed the matter was addressed on-site, stating: "It is not appropriate for Games staff or contractors to express personal political views while carrying out their duties or to direct such remarks at visitors."
The committee emphasized its commitment to a safe and inclusive environment. Hassan, a contractor for the store operator, was fired following the incident, according to reports from advocacy groups and social media updates. Italian police filed a harassment report, with a possible investigation under anti-discrimination laws.
The episode drew sharp reactions online. Pro-Israel groups, including StopAntisemitism, labeled it an antisemitic incident.
Israel's nine-athlete delegation has faced scattered protests since the Games opened on February 6, though no disruptions have affected competitions. The International Olympic Committee has not commented.The store resumed normal operations, and the Games continue through February 22.