Afghan cyclist Fariba Hashimi, who once disguised herself as a man to pursue her passion for the sport, secured a silver medal in the women’s road race at the Asian Games held near Nagoya, Japan. The 23-year-old, now based in Italy, finished second at the Shinshiro Cycling Road Course on Tuesday, with China’s Guo Li claiming gold and Hong Kong’s Leung Wing Yee taking bronze.

Hashimi’s journey to the podium has been marked by challenges related to the restrictions placed on women under Taliban rule in Afghanistan. Growing up in the Faryab province, she began cycling at age 15, inspired by her older sister, Yulduz, who is also a professional cyclist. Due to cultural and social barriers, Hashimi often disguised herself as a male—using multiple masks and clothing—to attend training sessions without being identified. She recounted incidents of hostility, including being targeted with stones and bottles meant to intimidate her and force her off the road.

Following the Taliban’s return to power in 2021 and their implementation of stringent regulations limiting women’s participation in public life, including sports and education, Hashimi fled Afghanistan. With assistance from Italian former cycling champion Alessandra Cappellotto, she relocated to Italy, where she continues to live and train.

Hashimi described her silver medal as a symbol of resilience for Afghan women, expressing hope that her achievement will inspire future generations to pursue their dreams without fear. “I was born inside a country where the women who dream are getting attacked, and I’m really happy that I have fought against that,” she said. “I hope that the next generation will come here and represent their country without any fear.”

Despite limited support during the competition—traveling with only one federation representative who did not provide mechanical assistance—Hashimi managed her own bike maintenance throughout the race. She extended her gratitude to the Japanese team for their kindness and help in fixing her bicycle during the event.

Fariba and her sister Yulduz both competed at the Paris Olympics two years ago, and Hashimi has set her sights on the 2028 Los Angeles Games. Reflecting on her experience, she emphasized her determination to continue competing and representing Afghan women in international sport.