Afghan athlete in breaking, Manizha Talash, was disqualified from the Paris 2024 Olympic Games after displaying a message on her back that read “Free Afghan Women” just before her performance.
The dance federation issued a statement, saying, “Manizha Talash has been disqualified for displaying a political message on her clothing in violation of Rule 50 of the Olympic Charter.”
This rule prohibits athletes from expressing political views during the Olympic Games. In yesterday’s first ‘duel,’ the 21-year-old Talash, representing the refugee team, competed against India shortly after the controversial message was discovered.
Born in Kabul, which has been under Taliban rule since 2021, Tahli fled the country with her two brothers to seek refuge in Spain.
“I didn’t leave Afghanistan because I was afraid of the Taliban or because I couldn’t live there. I left to do whatever I can for the girls of Afghanistan, for my life and my future,” Talash said shortly before the start of the Games.
Talash, who discovered her sport online at the age of 18, was participating in dance sport’s Olympic debut, having qualified under the universality clause.
