Afghan Cyclist Who Once Had to Disguise as Boy to Train Wins Emotional Asian Games Silver

An Afghan female cyclist, who secretly trained while disguising herself as a boy amid oppression in her homeland, has claimed a silver medal at the Asian Games.

Standing on the podium, she dedicated the glory of her medal to the oppressed women of her homeland, delivering a powerful message of solidarity.

Fariba Hashimi (23) of Afghanistan secured the silver medal with a time of 2 hours, 50 minutes, and 5 seconds in the women's individual road race final at the 2026 Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games held in Aichi Prefecture, Japan, today (September 22).

She recorded the same time as China's Guo Li, who crossed the finish line in first place, but was edged out to second by a hair's breadth.

Although she missed out on the gold medal right before her eyes, there were no regrets.

After the race, Hashimi could not hide her overwhelming emotion, saying, "I cannot fully put my emotions into words right now. This is a special moment."

Born in Afghanistan, Hashimi had to disguise herself as a boy during her teens in order to ride bicycles with her older sister, Yulduz, who currently competes alongside her as a professional cyclist.

This achievement was forged by overcoming a harsh past where she even faced stonings from neighbors simply for being a woman riding a bicycle.

"I was born in a country where women who dream are attacked, but I fought against that reality, and I am truly glad for it," Hashimi said. "I hope the next generation can come here to represent their country without any fear."

When the Taliban regained power in 2021, Afghan women were stripped of opportunities including education, social advancement, and sports.

Hashimi, a native of Faryab Province in northern Afghanistan, was also forced to leave her homeland after the Taliban's takeover, settling in Italy to continue her training.

(Photo: Reuters, Yonhap News)
※ Please note: This article was translated by AI and may contain errors.