Fariba Hashimi wins Asian Games silver for Afghanistan
Fariba Hashimi, who trained disguised as a man in Afghanistan, won silver in the Asian Games women's road race.
The 23-year-old Afghan cyclist, based in Italy, finished second behind China's Guo Li to claim silver. As a teenager, Hashimi trained disguised as a man and faced stone attacks while pursuing her sport in Afghanistan.
After the Taliban returned to power in 2021, she fled with help from Italian champion Alessandra Cappellotto. Fariba and her sister Yulduz, also a pro cyclist, competed at the Paris Olympics two years ago.
Hashimi said the medal shows "resilience from Afghan women" and hopes the next generation can compete "without any fear".
- 23
- Hashimi's age
- Near Nagoya, Japan
- Race location
- Guo Li of China
- Second place finisher
- 2021
- Taliban returned to power
Why it mattersHer success is a statement about women's rights and perseverance under oppression, and carries a message to women facing restrictions worldwide.
AustraliaNo direct Australian effect, though the story resonates with Australian sports audiences following the Asian Games.
✓ Claims checked against the source. checked 6 h ago
