journalisten ontrafelen de mythe van de ijsman
Amsterdam, zondag, 14 juni 2026.
Anneke Stoffelen en Robert van de Griend winnen de Brusseprijs 2026 voor hun boek De IJsprofeet. Ze ondervragen het imago van Wim Hof, de gezondheidsgoeroe achter de koude-expositiebeweging. Hun onderzoeksjournalistiek brengt een ander perspectief op het fenomeen. Het boek wijst op twintig verdrinkingsdoden die verband houden met zijn methode. Nabestaanden spreken over directe verwijzingen naar de techniek voorafgaand aan de incidenten. De jury prijst het diepe gravende werk en de genuanceerde karakterstudie. Het portret van Hof blijft menselijk, ondanks de ernstige aantijgingen. De publicatie verschijnt bij Atlas Contact. De prijs werd uitgereikt in Amsterdam.
winning the brusseprijs for investigative depth
Journalists Anneke Stoffelen and Robert van de Griend received the Brusseprijs 2026 in Amsterdam for their book De IJsprofeet. The award ceremony took place during a special broadcast of Met het Oog op Morgen on June 10, 2026 [4]. Their work investigates the life and influence of Wim Hof, known globally as ‘The Iceman’ for his cold exposure techniques and breathing methods [2]. The book was published without Hof’s cooperation, making it an unauthorized biography that relies on external accounts and documentation [2]. The prize includes a monetary award of €10,000 [1].
uncovering risks behind the wim hof method
The authors document serious consequences linked to the Wim Hof Method. According to testimonies from relatives, more than twenty drowning deaths occurred after individuals attempted the practice [1]. Some victims reportedly stated their intention to apply the technique just before entering water [2]. One journalist noted the danger lies in convincing people they can overcome illness without medical care [2]. The book questions how such figures gain uncritical trust despite lacking scientific validation for broad health claims [1]. Risks extend beyond physical harm to psychological dependence on charismatic leaders [3].
debunking myths with nuanced storytelling
Stoffelen and Van de Griend challenge exaggerated narratives surrounding Hof’s achievements. They reveal inconsistencies in his personal history and scrutinize inflated records [2]. Allegations of prolonged physical and emotional abuse toward his former partner and her children are also examined [3]. Despite these findings, the jury praised the authors for avoiding caricature [1]. The portrayal remains layered, acknowledging Hof’s inspirational qualities alongside his flaws [1]. This balanced approach strengthens the credibility of their investigation [3]. The narrative avoids sensationalism, focusing instead on evidence-based reporting [1].
recognition from peers and critical acclaim
The Brusseprijs jury highlighted the book’s rigorous research and compelling character study [1]. Chair Saskia Jonker and presenter Elisabeth Steinz awarded the prize [2]. Competing titles included biographies, climate investigations, and tech exposés, reflecting diverse journalistic excellence [1]. Last year’s winner was Olivier van Beemen for Ondernemers in het Wild [1]. Published by Atlas Contact, De IJsprofeet stands out for combining sharp critique with empathetic storytelling [1]. Its success underscores growing public interest in holding wellness influencers accountable through deep journalism [3].