Interview with Fariba Hashimi: "We can be a symbol and an example"

Interview with Fariba Hashimi

The interview was conducted by Kristian Bauer

TOUR: What does winning the title at the Afghan Road Championship mean to you?

Fariba Hashimi: I cycle for freedom. I started cycling in Afghanistan to be free and now that I am lucky enough to be safe, I want to spread our message to Afghan women and women without rights all over the world. In Afghanistan we would not have been able to continue cycling and realise our dreams. Here, we Afghan women cyclists at least have the opportunity to try.

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TOUR: How important is your success for women's cycling in Afghanistan?

Hashimi: We can be a symbol and an example for women in Afghanistan. In a free country where women are respected and have the same rights as men, anything is possible - even becoming a cyclist.

TOUR: How are you preparing for your first season as a professional rider?

Fariba Hashimi: I will dedicate myself to athletics training and try to take part in as many races as possible.

TOUR: What are your biggest cycling dreams?

Fariba Hashimi: To take part in the Tour of Italy and the Tour de France. When I started this sport in my country, I used to watch these races on television and dreamed of one day being able to take part in competitions. Thanks to Alessandra Cappellotto (Chairwoman of the CPA, editor's note) this dream could one day become reality.