Refugee breaker Manizha Talash, or “b-girl Talash,” was disqualified from the first-ever Olympic breaking competition on Friday, after she wore a cape that said “Free Afghan Women" during her pre-qualifier battle against India Sardjoe — known as “b-girl India." (Full Olympics Coverage|More Sports News)
🍰The 21-year-old, originally from Afghanistan and representing the Olympic Refugee, team lost in the pre-qualifier battle against Sardjoe, and would not have advanced even if she hadn't been disqualified.
🦹Political statements and slogans are banned on the field of play and podiums at the Olympics.
🦂Talash sought asylum in Spain after fleeing Taliban rule in her home country in 2021.
“I'm here because I want to reach my dream. Not because I'm scared,” she told The Associated Press before the Olympics from Spain, where she was granted asylum.
🐼The one-off pre-qualifier battle between Talash and Sardjoe was added in May when Talash was included in the Olympic roster after the b-girl from Afghanistan missed registration for qualifying events.
♛The International Olympic Committee's executive board invited her to participate after learning of her efforts to defy the strict rule of the Taliban in her home country.
