TOKYO: Long before Afghan cyclist Fariba Hashimi stepped onto the international stage, she had to hide her identity to pursue her passion for cycling.
Growing up in Afghanistan’s Faryab province, Hashimi said she trained while disguised as a man because she feared attacks and harassment in a society where many women faced restrictions on participating in sports.
The cyclist said she wore multiple layers of clothing and masks during training sessions to avoid being recognised.
“I always dressed as a man to go to training, wearing two or three different masks so people would not recognise or attack me,” Hashimi previously told the media.
A dream challenged by fear and restrictions
Hashimi developed an interest in cycling as a teenager and followed the path of her sister Yulduz, who also became an international cyclist.
However, pursuing the sport was not easy. Hashimi said she had to deal with hostility while riding on the roads, including people throwing stones at her.
ALSO READ: Afghan Cyclist Who Ran Away from Taliban Wins Asian Games Silver Medal
Despite the risks, she continued training because she believed cycling could become a way to represent Afghanistan and inspire other women.
“I was born inside a country where women who dream are getting attacked, and I’m really happy that I have fought against that,” she said.
Leaving Afghanistan to continue her career
After the Taliban returned to power in 2021, Hashimi left Afghanistan and moved to Italy, where she continued her professional training.
She received support from Italian former world champion cyclist Alessandra Cappellotto, allowing her to continue competing at the highest level.
Hashimi said leaving her country was difficult, but she wanted to keep pursuing her ambition and create opportunities for future generations.
A symbol of determination for Afghan women
Hashimi’s journey has become an example of perseverance for many Afghan women who face barriers in sport and public life.
She said her success represents more than personal achievement.
“This silver medal can show a lot of resilience from Afghan women,” Hashimi said.
The cyclist now hopes to continue representing Afghanistan internationally and has set her sights on future competitions, including the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.
