Cyclist who dressed as man to avoid Taliban wins silver medal
· Sports · BBC News, BBC Sport
Fariba Hashimi, a 23-year-old female cyclist from Afghanistan, won a silver medal in the women's road race at the Asian Games held near Nagoya, Japan on Tuesday. She previously disguised herself as a man to train and avoid Taliban attacks, as women's cycling was restricted in Afghanistan. Hashimi fled Afghanistan after the Taliban returned to power in 2021 and now lives and trains in Italy with support from former world champion Alessandra Cappellotto. Her achievement follows a seventh-place finish in the women's individual time trial on Sunday. Hashimi said the medal represents resilience for Afghan women and hopes it inspires others to pursue their dreams without fear. She and her sister Yulduz competed at the 2024 Paris Olympics and are targeting the 2028 Los Angeles Games.
Why it matters
The medal highlights the ongoing struggle for women's rights in Afghanistan under Taliban rule and showcases the determination of Afghan female athletes despite systemic restrictions. It serves as a symbol of resilience and hope for women in Afghanistan and globally who face barriers to sports participation.
Read the original report — BBC News
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