Cypriot athlete Marina Hadjicosta speaks out against racism

Seventeen-year-old Cypriot discus thrower Marina Hadjicosta, who recently won a bronze medal at the World Athletics U20 Championships in Oregon, has publicly addressed the racist abuse she has faced on social media. Born in Limassol on February 8, 2009, and adopted by Simoni Papaleontiou Hadjicosta and Savvas Hadjicostas, she holds a proud identity as a Cypriot athlete despite her biological heritage from Poland and Nigeria. She emphasized that her commitment to representing Cyprus is reflected in her sporting achievements and her emotional connection to the national anthem.

In her social media post, Hadjicosta condemned the discrimination directed at her and other athletes, such as Milan Trajkovic, urging state authorities to take decisive action against racism and intolerance. Her statement has garnered widespread support from the Cyprus Amateur Athletics Federation (KOEAS), which publicly stood by her, asserting that sports should be a platform for unity rather than division. The athlete has vowed to continue competing for Cyprus with pride, refusing to let prejudiced comments define her national identity or her future in the sport.