Olympics: Refugee B-girl Talash carries slogan to Games

Refugee athlete Manizha Talash was disqualified for displaying the words “Free Afghan Women” on her outfit during her Olympic breaking bout in Paris.

The Afghan, who competed for the Refugee Olympic Team under the name B-girl Talash, had the message emblazoned in large letters on a cape she wore during her pre-qualifying battle against India of the Netherlands as the dance sport made its debut at the Games.

Talash lost but was later disqualified because political statements and slogans are banned on the field of play at the Olympics.

“I wanted to show people what’s 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 dancing and barring women from classrooms and gymnasiums.

The Taliban claim they respect women’s rights in accordance with Sharia law.

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

It is clarified that if an infraction is found, each incident will be evaluated by the respective National Olympic Committee, International Federation and International Olympic Committee, and disciplinary measures will be taken on a case-by-case basis if necessary.

Talash was eliminated from the competition before the group stage, but her message will have been heard on the biggest stage her sport has ever seen.

The new Olympic sport will not be in Los Angeles in 2028, although it hopes to show enough potential to be considered for Brisbane in 2032.