Olympics break: Refugee b-girl Talash wears slogan at Games

Refugee athlete Manizha Talash wore the words “Free Afghan Women” on her outfit during her Olympic final in Paris.

The Afghan, who competes for the Olympic refugee team and plays B-girl Talash, had the message emblazoned in large letters on a cape she wore during her qualifying match against India from the Netherlands, when the dance sport made its debut at the Games.

Political expressions and slogans are prohibited on the playing field of the Olympic Games.

“I wanted to show people what is possible,” she told reporters.

Talash, originally from Kabul, lives in Spain and is one of 37 athletes competing for the refugee team.

She fled Afghanistan after the Taliban returned to power in 2021, banning music and dance and denying women access to classrooms and gyms.

The Taliban say they respect women’s rights under Sharia law.

Rule 50 of the Olympic Charter states that “no form of demonstration or political, religious or racial propaganda is permitted in Olympic venues, venues or other areas”.

It says that if there is a violation, each incident will be reviewed by the relevant National Olympic Committee, the International Federation and the International Olympic Committee. If necessary, disciplinary measures will be taken on a case-by-case basis.

Talash’s defeat eliminated her before the round-robin stage, but her message was heard on the biggest stage her sport has ever graced.

The newest sport at the Olympic Games will not take place in Los Angeles 2028, but it is hoped the sport has enough potential to be considered for the Brisbane Games in 2032.