British paddler and openly gay athlete Kurts Adams Rozentals has been banned from competition and training for two years by Paddle UK after posting a video of a “sexual act” filmed aboard an aeroplane.
The footage, originally shared on his Instagram in March, was found to breach the organisation’s “indecent, offensive or immoral behaviour” policy, leading to disciplinary action.
Rozentals had previously made headlines after revealing he earned over £100,000 on adult subscription platform OnlyFans between January and May — all while continuing to train toward his Olympic goals.
“This ban would have never happened if athletes were funded properly,” Rozentals told BBC Sport.
“While I understand the video could be described as crazy, it was not illegal and certainly shouldn’t be the reason for banning an athlete.”
Banned After Plane Video
The content, which Paddle UK says “brought the sport into serious disrepute”, was referred to an independent body before the two-year ban was handed down. The decision follows Rozentals’ earlier removal from the World Class Programme, a high-performance training initiative aimed at Olympic development.
In a candid reflection, Rozentals admitted he wouldn’t share such content again, but explained the context behind his decision to post it.
“Looking back now, I probably wouldn’t post something like that. But I remember the state of mind I was in when I did film it and post it. It was the first time in my life I saw real progress in my financial situation.”
“I saw a direct correlation of me making those type of videos and my life situation improving. So, I was in this state of mind where I knew that all I have to do to continue this, is keep making videos like this. It’s a crazy world we live in. I don’t regret it.”
Governing Body Defends Decision
Paddle UK maintained the ban was consistent with its standards for behaviour, releasing a statement that reaffirmed the organisation’s commitment to integrity in sport:
“We remain committed to ensuring a safe and open environment for all, and action under the Athlete Disciplinary Policy is taken where necessary and proportionate.”
Rozentals’ supporters argue the situation highlights the financial pressures many athletes face when funding their careers — especially those outside the spotlight of major professional sports.
