Belarusian sprinter Kristina Timanovskaya sparked a major political crisis at the Tokyo Games when her delegation tried to send her home for speaking out against her coach. Now, three years later, she has left Belarus and is competing for Poland in the 100- and 200-meter dashes. She is one of the lucky few who were able to change citizenship to continue their Olympic dreams.
In an interview in the Olympic Village, Timanovskaya expressed her goal of competing in the Paris Olympics and running her own distance. However, many Belarusian athletes who opposed the dictatorship in their country have been left unable to compete, while those who remained silent or showed loyalty to the president continue to participate in international events.
The political unrest in Belarus, which began in 2020, led to mass protests against the government of President Lukashenko. Athletes like Timanovskaya who spoke out faced threats and pressure to remain silent. Those who opposed the regime have been forced into exile, unable to represent Belarus in international competitions.
The situation in Belarus has led to a divide among athletes, with some supporting the regime and others facing consequences for speaking out. The Belarusian Olympic delegation in Paris competes under a neutral designation, with the country’s Olympic committee making decisions about participation.
The experiences of exiled Belarusian athletes highlight the challenges faced by those who oppose the government. Many have been labeled as extremists and face legal consequences for their activism. Despite their efforts to advocate for fair treatment from the International Olympic Committee, they have received little response or support.
The stories of athletes like Timanovskaya, who have been able to continue their careers in other countries, shed light on the impact of political repression on the sporting community in Belarus. As they navigate the challenges of exile and continue to fight for justice, they serve as a reminder of the sacrifices made in the pursuit of freedom and democracy.