Photo via Hindustan Times

Afghanistan cyclist who disguised herself as a man to escape Taliban wins Asian Games silver

Fariba Hashimi secured a silver medal in the women's individual road race during the Asian Games, marking a historic milestone as Afghanistan's initial female medalist at the multi-sport event since the year 2002. The 23-year-old athlete completed the time trial in seventh place earlier in the week before capturing her podium finish.

Five years prior, she escaped her homeland following the Taliban takeover and currently resides in Italy, hoping her achievement empowers other Afghan women amidst widespread educational exclusion.

Originally hailing from Faryab province, Hashimi began cycling at age 15 alongside her sibling Yulduz after borrowing a neighbor's bicycle. The sisters initially trained secretly while disguised in traditional headscarves, facial coverings, and sunglasses, eventually capturing top positions in their debut 2017 competition.