Refugee Olympic Team Paris 2024

The Refugee Olympic Team at the Paris 2024 Olympics symbolises hope, resilience, and the unbreakable human spirit. For the third time, athletes who have faced unimaginable hardships and been forced to leave their homes will come together to compete on the world’s biggest stage. Their journey is not just about reaching the Olympics; it’s about defying the odds and showing the world that refugees are not just survivors but also achievers capable of extraordinary feats.

The 36 athletes on this year’s team represent 11 different countries and will compete in 14 sports, including athletics, boxing, cycling, and swimming. These athletes have trained under challenging conditions, often with limited resources, yet they have risen to the occasion with determination and passion. Their participation sends a message to the world: that despite the adversity they have faced, they can still reach for the stars and achieve greatness.

International Olympic Committee President Thomas Bach made the announcement during a ceremony at Olympic House in Lausanne, Switzerland, on Thursday (2 May). He said: “We welcome all of you with open arms. You are an enrichment to our Olympic Community, and to our societies.

“With your participation in the Olympic Games, you will demonstrate the human potential of resilience and excellence. This will send a message of hope to the more than 100 million displaced people around the world.”

One inspiring example is Perina Lokure, who grew up in Kenya’s Kakuma Refugee Camp after fleeing South Sudan. Despite the harsh conditions, she discovered her love for running and will now compete in middle-distance events at the Paris Olympics. Like many others on the team, her story is a testament to the power of sport to transform lives and provide a sense of purpose and hope.

The Refugee Olympic Team, now competing under a new emblem featuring a heart, is a powerful symbol of unity and the collective strength of displaced people worldwide. This emblem is more than just a symbol; it represents the courage and perseverance of refugees everywhere, showing that their dreams cannot be silenced by borders or conflicts.

As these athletes step onto the Olympic stage in Paris, the aspirations of millions of refugees around the world. Their participation in the Olympics is a reminder that no matter where you come from or what challenges you face, there is always a path forward. The Refugee Olympic Team is not just competing for medals—they are competing to inspire the world and prove that resilience and determination can lead to extraordinary accomplishments. They are the ambassadors of hope for refugees worldwide.