Team Kenya clarify 'neglect' of Malkia Strikers at JKIA after landing from Paris Olympics

Did they opt to go back to their families via private means or they were just left stranded at the airport?

That is the question lingering on Kenyan sports lovers’ minds after a video circulating online showed the Kenya women’s volleyball team; Malkia Strikers 'stranded' at their Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) upon their return from the Paris 2024 Olympics.

The team landed back in the country on Tuesday night and was reported to have been left unattended, raising questions about the organization and support provided to the athletes.

LIVE BLOG: Time and where to watch Team Kenya's four Wednesday races

The ten-time African champions registered a substandard performance in the Summer Games, going down in all their pool matches.

They began their participation in France on Monday 29 July with a 3-0 (25-14, 25-13, 25-12) defeat to second-seeded Brazil, before falling by an almost similar margin 3-0 (25-14, 25-17, 25-15).

They slumped to their third consecutive defeat, going down to Japan in 3-0 straight sets of 25-17, 25-22 and 25-12 in their final Pool B outing.

Olympics Kenya released a statement clarifying the situation after the video of the players did rounds on social media.

"The 8th group, including the swimming team and Malkia Strikers, arrived safely in Kenya last night. As with all other arriving teams, they were welcomed by the Ministry of Sports, and transport and accommodation were provided for all Team Kenya athletes.

Many athletes choose to visit their loved ones after weeks of training and competition, which is entirely their choice.

undefined

With 4️ days remaining in the Paris Olympics, we continue to ensure that athletes arrive and depart safely and receive the utmost care from the government," read the statement.

The Kenya Volleyball Federation (KVF) also dismissed the claims, asserting that the Malkia Strikers were accorded a warm welcome upon their arrival.

According to the federation, the players opted to head home to their families instead of proceeding with official welcome ceremonies.

“KVF has clarified that the Malkia Strikers were well received at the airport but players opted to go home with their families,” Carol Radull reported.

The reception was a stark contrast to the vibrant reception given to the Kenya 7s national team, Shujaa who despite winning only two matches and finishing their campaign in ninth position were welcomed with significant pomp and colour.