Afghan Cyclist Masomah Ali Zada Appointed Chef de Mission for Paris 2024 Olympic Refugee Team

Afghan cyclist Masomah Ali Zada, a member of the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Refugee Team and a member of the International Olympic Committee's (IOC) Athletes Commission, has been appointed Chef de Mission for the Paris 2024 Olympic Refugee Team, the IOC announced on Monday.

Bernadette Castel-Hollingsworth, Deputy Director of the International Protection Division of UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, will also join Ali Zada as Deputy Chef de Mission, the organization chaired by Thomas Bach said.

"I am delighted to welcome Masomah in her role as Head of Mission. After her journey from leaving Afghanistan to competing in the Tokyo Olympic Games and now leading the Refugee Olympic Team, she has shown incredible resilience and determination," said Thomas Bach, President of the IOC.

The appointment of Masomah Ali Zada as Chef de Mission for the Paris 2024 Olympic Refugee Team is a testament to her outstanding achievements and dedication to the sport. Born in Afghanistan, Ali Zada faced numerous challenges before reaching the international stage as an athlete.

Ali Zada's journey began when she fled her war-torn country as a child, seeking refuge in Iran. It was during her time in Iran that she discovered her passion for cycling. Despite facing cultural barriers and limited resources, Ali Zada pursued her dream and became a professional cyclist.

Her talent and determination caught the attention of the IOC, leading to her participation in the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games as a member of the Refugee Team. Ali Zada's presence in the Games served as a powerful symbol of hope and resilience for refugees around the world.

Now, as Chef de Mission for the Paris 2024 Olympic Refugee Team, Ali Zada will continue to inspire and empower fellow refugee athletes. In her new role, she will be responsible for leading and supporting the team, ensuring their well-being, and representing their interests within the Olympic movement.

Bernadette Castel-Hollingsworth, who will serve as Deputy Chef de Mission, brings extensive experience and expertise in refugee protection. Her collaboration with Ali Zada will further strengthen the team's leadership and advocacy efforts.

The Olympic Refugee Team was first introduced in 2016 as a way to provide a platform for refugee athletes to compete at the highest level. It aims to raise awareness about the global refugee crisis and promote inclusivity in the world of sports.

The appointment of Masomah Ali Zada and Bernadette Castel-Hollingsworth reflects the IOC's commitment to supporting and empowering refugee athletes. Their leadership will undoubtedly inspire athletes and individuals worldwide, showcasing the transformative power of sports and the resilience of the human spirit.

As the world eagerly awaits the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, the presence of the Refugee Team, led by Masomah Ali Zada, will serve as a reminder of the strength and determination of refugees, and their ability to overcome adversity through the pursuit of their dreams.