Altach Women’s Football Team Rocked by Voyeurism Scandal: Former Referee Sentenced
A former referee has received a seven-month suspended prison sentence and a €1,200 fine after being found guilty of secretly filming and photographing players in the changing rooms, gym, and showers of the SCR Altach women’s football team. The perpetrator was also ordered to pay each victim €625 in compensation. The verdict was delivered in the regional court in Feldkirch, Austria.
Details of the Case
The defendant, who worked at the club between 2020 and 2025, recorded approximately 30 players. According to the prosecutor, the images and videos have been seized and destroyed. The judge emphasized the severity of actively creating such content compared to merely viewing it.
Outcry from Players and Officials
Eleni Rittmann, a former Altach player currently playing for Evian in France, expressed outrage at the sentence via Instagram, questioning its adequacy given the perpetrator’s position as a high-level referee in Switzerland and an official within Altach. She highlighted the violation of privacy and the lasting impact on the players, stating some now experience unsafe in public showers. Rittmann questioned whether the punishment would deter others.
Victims, in a statement read during the trial, described feeling a loss of security and a destruction of the trust they had in the club, which they had considered a “home.”
Official Response and Security Measures
The case prompted a strong response from Austrian officials. Minister of Sport Michaela Schmidt labeled the alleged crimes “disgusting” when the story initially broke in October, as reported by Vorarlberger Nachrichten. She emphasized the need for athletes to feel safe in their own dressing rooms.
SCR Altach has stated its commitment to supporting the players and is implementing additional security measures. Manuel Willam, an assistant to the board, announced in early February that the club is developing preventative measures in collaboration with the Austrian FA and the Austrian Sports Federation, with details expected to be presented in March.
Appeal Possible
Whereas the defendant accepted the sentence, the prosecutor is considering an appeal. The verdict is not yet final.