Israeli Triathlon Team Faces Discrimination at World Championships in Spain

The Israeli national triathlon team experienced significant discrimination at the World Championships held in Pontevedra, Spain, nearly leading to their withdrawal from the competition. According to Lior Cohen, the professional manager of the Israeli Triathlon Association, who spoke to Sport 5, Israeli flags and the name 'Israel' were removed from all possible locations. During a relay race, the team was referred to as 'Team Number 20' without any national identification. Additionally, tape was placed over the name 'Israel' on the transition area. Professional repercussions also occurred, with athlete Shahar Sagiv forced to compete in unfamiliar, neutral gear due to these measures, impacting his performance. Cohen stated that the local organizing committee, with the backing of the mayor, fostered an anti-Israel atmosphere. The mayor reportedly referenced the 'massacre in Gaza' during the opening ceremony, where the Israeli team was prohibited from participating. Despite the hostile environment, the international triathlon federation chairman, a Spaniard, provided full support to the Israeli delegation, enabling them to compete. Cohen recalled a similar incident in Ireland previously, where organizers expressed concerns for athlete safety. The team plans to compete in future events in South America or Asia, anticipating a less politically charged environment.