Hijab ban at Olympics – sprinters can wear caps instead

The French Olympic Committee has decided that athletes representing the country will not be allowed to wear hijabs or similar veils during the Paris Games. The decision initially risked a boycott by Muslim competitors, but some have now agreed to wear caps instead.

Runner Sounkamba Sylla, born in France to Guinean parents, was initially reported to be boycotting the opening ceremony because she did not want to show her hair for religious reasons.

However, it is now clear that she will attend and wear a cap instead, as will several other athletes representing the country at the Olympics.

“We have finally reached an agreement so that I can participate in the Olympic opening ceremony. I want to thank you all from the bottom of my heart for your participation and support since the beginning”, she wrote on Instagram.

French Olympic athletes are subject to the same rules as other civil servants in the country – which means, among other things, that the work environment must be characterized by secular principles and ideals, and that certain religious symbols and clothing are not allowed.

Islam is currently the second largest religion in France, with an estimated 10% of the country’s adult population identifying as Muslim.

During Friday’s opening ceremony, when Olympians will parade along the Seine River, the French delegation will wear custom-made uniforms by luxury brand Berluti.