Mercy Afirapa said in her first interview after receiving Israeli citizenship that the yearslong struggle left her feeling like a “second-class” resident, and that the result now makes her feel free. The interview came ahead of the Grand Slam Jerusalem athletics meet, her first major competition in front of a home crowd since the citizenship process ended.
Afirapa explained that her citizenship case took nearly four years, even though she was born in Israel and had no connection to any other country. She said the Israeli Athletics Association eventually found a lawyer named Daniel, who worked hard for her, and that once he took over she received citizenship within three months. “I felt the meaning of the word, citizen. Free,” she said, adding that people without such a struggle do not understand the difference between full citizenship and temporary residency.
Her brother Blessing Afirapa said he was surprised by the news while he was at the European Championships. The association’s CEO handed him a letter reading, “Congratulations Mercy, you received citizenship.” He said he immediately called her and realized the ordeal was finally over, so she could represent Israel without extra paperwork. “At the end, that was all she wanted, just to represent Israel,” he said.
On the track, Mercy said she is aiming to break the Israeli 200-meter record again. She said she already set the national record last year after returning from injury, and although she is again coming off an injury, she is in shape and prepared for Thursday’s meet. “I am not doubting myself,” she said, crediting her coach for believing in her. Blessing, who was disappointed after failing to win his 200-meter race last year, said he is coming back “to restore pride at home” and win. He also said he still dreams of an Olympic medal, but first wants any medal at the European Championships.
Grand Slam Jerusalem 2026 will be held on Thursday, June 25, at the National Stadium in Givat Ram, Jerusalem. About 76 athletes from 29 countries are expected, in one of the few major international sporting events held in Israel since the war, alongside leading Israeli athletes.
