LONDON – A British Olympian silver-medalist paid two visits to local mosques on Tuesday, October 18, tendering an official apology after appearing to mock Islam in a controversial video.
“I accepted the offer to learn more about the Muslim community and Islam,” Louis Smith, a Rio silver medal-winning gymnast, wrote on Facebook, Cambridge News reported on Wednesday, October 19.
“I honestly can say it was actually a really good day. I was a little nervous and anxious before visiting because of the events in the last week. But the people and the community were so understanding and inviting.”
Louis fall into hot water after a video was leaked from a whatsapp chat showing him laughing and joking about “six o’clock prayers” and “60 virgins” as his friend pretended to pray on a tapestry.
The gymnast, who won silver at the Rio Olympics for the pommel horse, is now being investigated by British Gymnastics and could face suspension.
To clear the water, Louis has since issued a public apology on social media.
He also met with Muslims in London at Fazl Mosque in Southfields and Baitul Futuh Mosque in Morden.
Trying to make amends Louis also missed the Buckingham Palace reception, hosted by the Queen and Duke of Edinburgh, after the parade for Rio medalists.
Louis published an earlier apology for Muslims on his Instagram account.
“[During the visits] we discussed my actions and they showed me what they learn and the true meaning behind their religion of peace,” Smith wrote.
“The community work they do for various charities is actually crazy and the money raised each year would blow your mind.”
Britain is home to a sizable Muslim minority of nearly 2.8 million, according to last census published in 2011.
Mo Farah, a Muslim immigrant of Somali origin, was very successful in Rio Olympics, winning two gold medals in 5,000m and 10,000m race.