Roland Schoeman criticised over podcast bid to talk SA ‘atrocities’

Roland Schoeman has been widely criticised for his proposal to US podcaster Joe Rogan to discuss the “atrocities” against South Africans, particularly farmers.

The former Olympic swimmer – who is also a naturalised American citizen – has been vocal about his opinions on SA’s “crime, corruption, and government failure”. 

After retiring from the sport, the 44-year-old is now a real estate agent based in Arizona.

ROLAND SCHOEMAN ASKS JOE ROGAN FOR PODCAST APPEARANCE

On his X timeline, Roland Schoeman has posted tweet after tweet about racism, crime, and corruption he believes is prevalent in his home country of South Africa.

In many tweets, the swimmer – who was handed a suspension for allegedly doping – tagged US President Donald Trump and Pretoria-born billionaire, both of whom believe there is a “genocide against white people” in SA.

Roland splits his time between SA and the US, where he works as a real estate agent.

One of his most recent tweets has particularly ruffled feathers back home.

Roland tweeted: “Hey Joe Rogan. Would you entertain the idea of hosting a few South Africans to speak of all the atrocities in South Africa that are affecting ALL citizens?”

Hey @joeroganhq would you entertain the idea of hosting a few South Africans on your podcast to speak of all the atrocities in South Africa that are affecting All citizens. @elonmusk and @POTUS have been highlighting them.

— Roland Schoeman (@Rolandschoeman) February 19, 2025

Again, Roland tagged Trump and Musk, stating that they had also recently “highlighted” his concerns.

In recent weeks, the president and his head of government efficiency have accused SA of promoting “racial discrimination” and “confiscating land” from white South Africans.

Trump has since offered Afrikaners the opportunity to seek asylum in the US.

BACKLASH FROM FELLOW SOUTH AFRICANS

Roland Schoeman’s opinionated tweets have been met with mixed views from South Africans.

While some of his followers have agreed with his stance, others have accused him of spreading misinformation.

Comedian Riaad Moosa responded: “You’re an Olympian. You’re really being VERY selfish about the plight of your ‘own people’ when MOST other people in SA have it WAY worse. You clearly don’t care about all South Africans. 

“In fact, if you saw all South Africans as your own people, that would be a step in the right direction. Try to effectively help some black and brown people instead, you’ll see you’ll feel better. Otherwise, go polish your medals or do some laps.”

Riaad continued: “Stop trying to lie to America. And if you don’t think you’re lying, then the only other conclusion is that in your conception of South Africa, the pain of black and brown people is invisible, and all we are in your mind is an amorphous threat to the true owners of this nation.

Why you want to cause kak here brah?
You’re an Olympian. You’re really being VERY selfish about the plight of your ‘own people’ when MOST other people in SA have it WAY worse. You clearly don’t care about all South Africans.

In fact if you saw all South Africans as your own…

— Riaad Moosa (@RiaadMoosa) February 21, 2025

Investigative journalist Redi Tlhabi sarcastically added: “Great idea. I’d love to be a panelist on this topic. The South African crime statistics that came out yesterday would also provide rich material for this discussion.  The land ownership figures must also feature. Such an inspired idea from Roland. Please do it!”

Great idea. I’d love to be a panelist on this topic @joeroganhq . The South African crime statistics that came out yesterday would also provide rich material for this discussion. The land ownership figures must also feature. Such an inspired idea from Roland. Please do it! https://t.co/GehMHX2urh

— Redi Tlhabi (@RediTlhabi) February 21, 2025

Meanwhile, sports personality Andile Ncube called out Roland Schoeman for being an “a**,” reminding him that he had nominated himself to be the Minister of Sport in 2021 despite admitting that “you knew nothing.”

He added: “We all knew you weren’t too bright, and now everyone knows.”

What’s funny is that, you went from begging the president to give you a job in a ministry you admitted in our interview you knew nothing about to being this ass!

After that interview we all knew you weren’t too bright and now everyone knows https://t.co/5zJoDo14k6

— Andile Ncube (@AndileNcube) February 22, 2025

Here’s what others had to say…

Hey @joeroganhq, I’m available for this. Hit me up anytime. I’ll bring facts & receipts. Thanks in advance! https://t.co/gofhtsqQVz

— Clayson Monyela (@ClaysonMonyela) February 22, 2025

Hey @joeroganhq would you entertain the idea of hosting a few other South Africans on your podcast to challenge the fake news claims of “atrocities” in South Africa?
Let’s fact check each other live & in real time. 🙋‍♂️ https://t.co/i7n95XPB76

— Brett Herron 🇿🇦🍉 (@brettherron) February 21, 2025

Roland Schoeman is an idiot. Can’t believe we ever rooted for this guy in the Olympics. What an imbecile.

— wandy. (@Tshiwandy) February 22, 2025

South Africa has challenges, like any country, but what you and your ilk want is a pity party for a privileged few who think losing unchecked dominance is oppression. https://t.co/F9JXFuvIWT

— Michael De Villiers (@Mikedotcoza) February 22, 2025

WHAT ARE YOUR THOUGHTS ON ROLAND SCHOEMAN’S BELIEFS ABOUT SA?

Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1.

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