Manizha Talash, known as “b-girl Talash,” was disqualified from the inaugural Olympic breaking competition on Friday after wearing a cape with the slogan “Free Afghan Women” during her pre-qualifier battle against India’s Sardjoe, also known as “b-girl India.”
The 21-year-old Talash, who is originally from Afghanistan and represents the Olympic Refugee Team, lost the battle against Sardjoe and would not have progressed even without the disqualification.
Political statements and slogans are prohibited in Olympic competitions, and the World DanceSport Federation, which oversees breaking at the Olympics, confirmed that Talash was disqualified for displaying a political message on her attire.
Talash, who fled Taliban rule in Afghanistan in 2021 and sought asylum in Spain, stated before the Olympics, “I’m here because I want to reach my dream. Not because I’m scared.”
The pre-qualifier battle between Talash and Sardjoe was introduced in May after Talash missed the registration for qualifying events. The International Olympic Committee invited her to participate in recognition of her efforts to defy the Taliban’s restrictive rule.