Cypriot athlete Marina Hadjicosta speaks out against racism

Seventeen-year-old Cypriot athlete Marina Hadjicosta, the European U18 champion and recent bronze medalist in discus at the World U20 Championships in Oregon, has publicly denounced the racist abuse she has faced following her international successes. In an emotional social media post, Hadjicosta shared her personal background, revealing that she was born in Limassol on February 8, 2009, to a Polish mother and Nigerian father, and was adopted at birth by her parents, Simoni Papaleontiou Hadjicosta and Savvas Hadjicosta.

Addressing the discrimination she has encountered, the athlete emphasized that her identity and love for Cyprus are defined by her actions and humanitarian values rather than her ethnic origin or skin color. She called upon state authorities to take decisive action against racism to ensure a more inclusive society. Currently a student at the Laniteio Athletic Lyceum, Hadjicosta highlighted her deep connection to the country, noting that her mother is a refugee from Famagusta. Her message has sparked a national conversation regarding social tolerance and the necessity of improved public education to combat prejudice against residents and citizens with diverse backgrounds.