The championships will begin with the women’s and men’s time trials. Afghan rider Yulduz Hashimi will be the first woman off the start line at 10 a.m.
Race routes across the city have been finalised, with road signage and protective barriers in place to ensure both rider safety and a clear viewing experience for fans. The starting point at BK Arena and the finish at the junction near Kigali Convention Centre are fully set up.
Elite cyclists from more than 100 countries have arrived in Kigali ahead of the competition, familiarising themselves with the streets and completing training sessions to prepare for the week-long event.
Fan zones with food and seating areas have been arranged along the course, while VIP guests will have dedicated viewing areas to follow the action up close. A total of 917 competitors will take part in the championships, showcasing the world’s top cycling talent on Kigali’s roads.
Meanwhile, the Rwanda National Police has issued a [detailed plan of road closures and alternative routes ->https://en.igihe.com/sports/article/uci-2025-kigali-road-closures-and-alternative-routes?var_mode=calcul]to help residents and motorists navigate the city during the competition.
While smaller, local events have previously been held, this marks the first time a major global promotion is bringing a high-stakes, international tournament to the region, solidifying Rwanda’s role as a growing hub for world-class sporting events.
In an exclusive interview with IGIHE, Elias Schulze, General Manager of PFL Africa, shared his vision for the event, emphasising its potential to inspire Rwandan youth and cement the country’s role as a growing sports hub.
Featuring top-tier fighters from across the continent, the main card includes thrilling matchups across four weight classes: Patrick Ocheme (Nigeria) vs. Abdoul Razac Sankara (Burkina Faso) in the featherweight division; Nkosi Ndebele (South Africa) vs. Simbarashe Hokonya (Zimbabwe) in bantamweight; Shido Boris Esperança (Angola) vs. Octave Ayinda (Cameroon) in welterweight; and Maxwell Djantou Nana (Cameroon) vs. Justin Clarke (South Africa) in heavyweight.
The athletes, described by Schulze as “proven rock stars,” have advanced through gruelling quarterfinals to compete for a spot in the finals in Benin this December.
“This is really showcasing the exceptional talent that has developed up till now,” said Schulze, describing the high-calibre fighters competing in four weight classes.
Broadcast to 40 million households across the continent via Canal+, SuperSport, and other platforms, the semi-finals will also reach global audiences, putting Rwanda in the spotlight.
{{Perfect stage for MMA
}}
Schulze, who first visited Rwanda in 2006 as an intern, marvelled at the country’s transformation over the past two decades.
“The infrastructure development is enormous,” he noted, praising the government and private sector’s investment in sport and culture. BK Arena, opened in 2019 with a 10,000-seat capacity, is a centrepiece of this progress.
“It rivals venues in Paris, London, or Dallas,” Schulze declared, citing its cleanliness, modern amenities, and ability to host world-class events. “You won’t know the difference.”
The arena’s selection for the semi-finals underscores Rwanda’s growing reputation as a rising hub for international sporting events, from the Basketball Africa League to cycling and now MMA.
Schulze credited Rwanda’s visa-free policy for Africans and streamlined processes for international visitors, which facilitate events like PFL’s by enabling fighters and fans from countries like Uganda and Kenya to attend.
“Rwanda has built an ecosystem for sports, not just for East Africa but for the world,” he said.
{{Inspiring youth through resilience and discipline
}}
A core mission of PFL Africa, inspired by chairman Francis Ngannou’s own journey, is to create a global-quality MMA ecosystem where African athletes can thrive without leaving the continent. Schulze emphasised the sport’s alignment with Rwanda’s ethos of resilience, self-mastery, and discipline—qualities he sees reflected in both MMA fighters and the nation’s post-1994 recovery.
“When I think of Rwanda, I think of getting knocked down but saying, ‘Next time, I’ll win,’” he said. “That’s what MMA is about.”
The event aims to inspire Rwandan youth through community engagement. PFL Africa is collaborating with Rwanda’s Ministry of Sports and local combat sports federations to organise activities during fight week, including gym visits and school programs.
“I was on the phone with Francis [Ngannou] yesterday, and he was talking about how self-discipline is so important, both when you haven’t made success yet and even when you’re successful,” Schulze shared. “That message of self-mastery and resilience is what the youth need, and we hope to bring it through our athletes, with activities in gyms or schools during fight week.”
Adding a local flavour, the event features fighter James Opio, who grew up in Rwanda before relocating to Uganda. Schulze highlighted Opio’s “homecoming” as a key draw, urging Rwandans to support him.
“Come out for James, or for rockstar fighters like Ochi, Sankara, and Ndebele,” Schulze said. “This is the peak of the sport.”
Looking ahead, Schulze envisions Rwanda as the heart of MMA in East Africa, potentially across the continent.
“We want to pull top talent and grow local federations,” he said, describing PFL’s “pull and grow” model.
By empowering athletes, including women who compete for equal prizes, and fostering inspiring stories like Ngannou’s, PFL Africa aims to make MMA a top sport alongside football and basketball.
“Rwanda has the potential to be associated with the explosion of this sport,” Schulze added.
The semi-finals, with early-bird tickets already selling out, promise an “engaging, dynamic, entertaining” spectacle, according to Schulze. “Come out on October 18,” he urged. “You won’t be disappointed.”
The semi-finals are expected to boost the local economy, with thousands of attendees, including international visitors, filling hotels, restaurants, and local businesses. Schulze noted that 80 people, including 50–60 fighters and their teams, will be flown in, likely with RwandAir, while local vendors at BK Arena will see increased activity.
The team arrived in Kigali on Thursday, September 18, 2025, aboard the national carrier, RwandAir.
“Murakaza neza i Kigali! This morning, we had the pleasure of flying the @BritishCycling team from London to compete in the UCI Road World Championships, proudly hosted in Rwanda from 21–28 September 2025. Join us in wishing them the very best in the races ahead!” RwandAir shared the news on X.
The championships, taking place from September 21 to 28 in Kigali, will feature thirteen races and bring together 1,400 participants from 109 countries and teams. A total of 917 riders are registered to compete for the coveted rainbow jerseys.
In the men’s category, the Elite Road Race will see the largest field with 219 riders, followed by the Men’s Junior Road Race with 172 participants. The Men’s Under 23 Road Race and the Team Time Trial Mixed Relay will feature 149 and 117 riders, respectively. Among women, the Elite Road Race has 129 confirmed riders, while the Women’s Junior and Under 23 events will host 91 and 107 participants. Individual time trials across categories will see competitors ranging from 53 to 103 riders per race.
Rwanda has registered 54 riders, placing it among the top six delegations. Other notable delegations include Spain (67), Italy (66), Canada (63), and Great Britain (34).
The event is expected to attract massive global attention, with 700 accredited journalists from 124 countries covering the races. Some 80 television broadcasters will air the competition worldwide, reaching an estimated 330 million viewers.
With only four days remaining before the historic event begins, Rwanda is set to make history as the first African country to host the World Championships, now in its 98th edition.
The competition will run from 21 to 28 September 2025, bringing together the world’s top cyclists in elite men’s and women’s categories, under-23, and junior categories.
Speaking to Radio/TV10, ACP Rutikanga explained that security and logistical measures have been well prepared. “Preparations are advanced. For instance, places like Kigali Heights have already been booked by international visitors who will watch the races from there,” he said.
“To ensure the safety of all participants and spectators along the routes, the Rwanda National Police has conducted adequate drills. Road safety equipment is in place to prevent accidents, and escort arrangements for cyclists will be managed at international standards,” he added.
ACP Rutikanga also clarified that traffic will remain largely unaffected, except for temporary adjustments such as the relocation of Nyanza Bus Station in Kicukiro to Canal Olympia for three days, while other transport routes will operate as usual.
On education concerns, Dr. Nelson Mbarushimana, Director General of Rwanda Basic Education Board (REB), assured parents that students in boarding schools will remain on campus during the event. “Boarding students will stay at their schools, while day students will receive assignments and guided work during the competition days,” he said.
Minister Mukazayire highlighted the scale of participation. “A total of 107 countries have sent 915 athletes. This shows the level at which future competitions like the Tour du Rwanda will be elevated,” she said.
She also revealed one of the unique innovations planned: “For the first time, time-trial competitions, both for teams and individual riders, will start indoors at BK Arena. The way the venue has been set up is one of the exciting new features awaiting participants.”
To accommodate international guests, Kigali International Airport has established special reception arrangements to ensure smooth transfers to hotels.
Beyond BK Arena, several fan zones have been set up for the public to follow the races and enjoy side events, including the Kigali Convention Centre, Kwa Mutwe (Mur de Kigali), Rwandex (Mundi Center), Kwa Mignone Stone Wall, Norvege, and other locations along the routes.
On Thursday, 18 September, organizers will conduct a rehearsal at the race’s finishing site near the junction by Kigali Convention Centre and Kigali Heights to finalize all technical aspects.
“My dream was just to be known,” he confessed during a recent interview on the Long Form podcast, revealing a passion for recognition over riches that propelled him from Lagos streets to European stadiums.
In a candid conversation on the sidelines of the SportsBiz Africa Forum recently held in Kigali, where he featured as a keynote speaker and panellist, the African football legend shared insights on his improbable rise, the weight of fame, the financial savvy that secured his future, and his concerns about the fading flair of African football.
{{From Nigerian streets to European pitches
}}
Okocha’s path to football immortality was far from scripted. In 1990, at just 17, he arrived in Germany on a visiting visa, not as a scouted prodigy but as an opportunist seizing his brother’s trial opportunity at a third-division club.
This marked the start of a career that would dazzle at Eintracht Frankfurt, PSG, and Bolton Wanderers.
Facing language barriers, cultural shock, and even racism, Okocha leaned on his dream to “eradicate poverty in my family, my community.”
“My challenges were off the pitch,” he admitted, but his distinctive style, African flair fused with a relentless work ethic, won over sceptics in Germany’s disciplined football landscape.
“I needed an identity,” he said, determined to represent Africa uniquely.
{{Navigating fame and financial responsibility
}}
Okocha’s flair found a home in the English Premier League with Bolton Wanderers, where he became a cult hero. Despite offers from top-four clubs, he stayed, drawn by the fans’ passion and the challenge of elevating a smaller team.
“I felt wanted,” he said, recalling how his presence helped Bolton reach mid-table and compete in Europe. “One fan approached me and said, ‘Thank you. You’ve put Bolton on a European map that I never thought would happen.’”
Financially, Okocha was wise beyond his years. His first contract, a modest 5,000 Deutschmarks in 1991, was saved, not squandered.
“You can’t wash away poverty with champagne,” he remarked, rejecting the urge to splurge.
With no pension for athletes, in what he described as “you are basically your own government,” he invested solely in property to ensure stability after retirement.
“My contract money is for investment,” he explained. “Match bonuses, endorsements—that’s enough for nice cars, watches, travel with the wife.”
Okocha also tackled the “black tax,” the cultural expectation to support extended family. He made dependents part of his budget but set firm boundaries.
“You make it clear they have a limited time,” he said. “You’re trying to set them up, and they have to make it count.”
By buying houses and paying school fees, he secured their futures while safeguarding his own.
“I can’t suffer because you decide not to be responsible,” he stressed.
{{Highs and lows of a storied career
}}
Okocha’s career peaked with Nigeria’s gold medal at the 1996 Atlanta Olympics, a historic first for an African football team. The triumph came despite chaotic preparations, with unpaid buses and repetitive meals of rice and chicken sauce.
“We had to pay for accommodation,” he recalled, highlighting the team’s grit. Conversely, relegation with Frankfurt in 1996 and Nigeria’s failure to qualify for the 2006 World Cup were his lowest moments.
“I felt bad,” he said of Frankfurt, blaming a manager who “destroyed the team.” The World Cup miss in Germany, where he had first made his name, stung deeply.
{{Future of African football
}}
Okocha voiced concern over African football’s fading flair, as players increasingly mimic European styles.
“We are losing our identity,” he warned. “We are trying to play like Europeans, and we can’t beat them at their game.”
He attributed this to structured coaching that stifles the street-bred creativity of his era, when he and peers like Rashidi Yekini played for love, not just results.
“We were free,” he said, lamenting the shift toward predictable, pass-heavy play.
To revitalise African sports, Okocha called for better governance, with former athletes in leadership roles.
“No one will understand how an athlete feels except if you’ve been an athlete,” he argued, criticising the appointment of unqualified figures as “political settlements.”
He also urged for investment-friendly structures, noting that unappealing leagues deter funding.
“If the league is not interesting, you can’t get value for your money,” he said.
During the interview, Okocha also hailed Rwanda’s progress as a model for Africa, praising its leadership and ambition.
“Rwanda can be used as an example of what one can achieve if you have a good leader and citizens willing to follow,” he said, urging Nigeria to adopt its focus on implementation.
For young Rwandans and aspiring athletes, Okocha’s advice was clear: “Dreams do come true. There’s no limit to what you can achieve if you believe, but it will never be rosy.”
He emphasised discipline and resilience, urging them to embrace challenges and take risks. “Don’t be scared of trying,” he said, “because a foolish doer will always do a great thinker.”
The 98th edition of the World Championships will take place in Kigali from September 21 to 28, 2025, bringing together cyclists from more than 100 countries.
A total of 23 riders will represent Rwanda. They are currently finalizing their preparations in Bugesera District, with just five days left before the competition begins.
Coach Sempoma noted that the team’s preparations have been strong, having trained in Musanze, France, and Bugesera to meet different performance goals.
He expressed confidence, even though previous appearances at the championships ended without a Rwandan completing the elite men’s race.
“In past World Championships, we would often have only two or three riders, and we would prepare abroad. We always had hope that we could finish, but it never happened,” he said.
On the long-standing challenge that no Rwandan has ever completed the elite men’s race, Sempoma said that 2025 could be a turning point: “This is a historic year, and it is possible to see Rwandan riders perform well in different categories.”
“What I can assure Rwandans is that our riders have trained well. Their morale is high, they have the ability, and the Ministry has supported us with everything we need, including modern equipment. We will do everything possible to make sure this year becomes historic,” he added.
“History is already being made with the World Championships coming to Rwanda, and for the first time to Africa. But another chapter could be written if a Rwandan rider performs strongly in the various races.”
First Vice President of the Rwanda Cycling Federation (FERWACY), Valentin Bigango, confirmed that preparations are nearly complete and that the national team has received all the necessary support.
“Preparations are advancing well. Together with our partners, we are putting final touches on different aspects of the World Championships. We are at about 96 percent readiness.
“The training program we had designed for the national team has been completed successfully, and at this stage the riders are focused on the competition itself, exactly where we want them to be,” he said.
{{Riders confident ahead of the World Championships}}
Patrick Byukusenge, one of Rwanda’s most experienced cyclists who has competed in numerous major international races, expressed confidence that the team is well prepared, to the point that they could even compete again the following day if necessary.
On the long-standing challenge that no Rwandan has ever completed the elite men’s race, Byukusenge said that racing in Kigali could bring a breakthrough: “This will make a difference, because the World Championships are being held in Africa for the first time. I feel this will change something for us as Rwandans. This circuit is not new to us; while we haven’t raced it many times, we have competed on it often enough. Our goal is to fight hard, and I know that millions of Rwandans will have their eyes on us.”
He further stressed that the 267.5-kilometre distance of the final race will not be a problem as the team is already accustomed to covering up to 300 kilometres in training sessions.
Xaverine Nirere, who has performed strongly in many races this year and will be one of four elite women representing Rwanda, is preparing for her third appearance at the World Championships.
She explained: “This Championship is different from the ones I took part in during 2023 and 2024, because this time we will start with a circuit and finish with a circuit. Being here at home, training daily on these roads, I believe we will perform well and could even win.”
Meanwhile, Pacifique Byusa, competing in the under-19 category, will be making his debut at an international race.
“This is my first major race at the international level. I will be competing against riders who are on a higher level than me. But I am well prepared, I followed my coaches’ program carefully, and I believe I will perform well,” he said.
His teammate, Liliane Uwiringiyimana, also set to compete in the women’s under-19 category, added: “We will give everything we have and do our best to ensure we finish the World Championships.”
Kipyegon dominated the race from start to finish, clocking 3 minutes 52.15 seconds, with fellow Kenyan Dorcus Ewoi taking silver in a personal best 3:54.92 and Australia’s Jessica Hull winning bronze in 3:55.16, marking her country’s first medal in the event.
The 31-year-old now equals Moroccan legend Hicham El Guerrouj’s record of four world 1,500m golds (1997–2003) and is also eyeing her second world 5,000m title later this week.
“Being able to defend my title and to win a fourth gold feels really special,” Kipyegon told reporters. “After setting the world record in Eugene [in July], I said to myself, ‘I have to go to Tokyo and defend my title.’ I knew I could run it under control.”
She reflected on her career milestone in Tokyo, the same city where she won her second Olympic gold in 2021 after giving birth to her daughter, Alyn. “I won here in the 2021 Olympics just after becoming a mother, so being back here, winning again, means I can show a new gold medal to my daughter.”
Known fondly as the “Queen of 1,500m,” Kipyegon grew up running barefoot in Kenya’s Rift Valley before being discovered by a coach in 2009.
Since then, she has collected three Olympic golds, four world titles, and a world record, making her one of the most decorated athletes in the history of the sport.
The match, held on Saturday night, September 13, 2025, at Cairo’s Hassan Mostafa Hall, saw Rwanda start strongly, taking the first set 25-20. However, Morocco responded by winning the second set 25-16.
The North African side carried their momentum into the third set, overpowering Rwanda 25-13. Rwanda bounced back in the fourth set, winning 25-21 to force a decisive fifth set. Morocco ultimately clinched the match with a 15-11 victory in the tie-break.
Rwanda will face Cameroon in their second Group B match on September 15, before closing their group stage against Kenya on September 17, 2025.
With over 1,000 riders, eight days of racing, and thousands of visitors expected, the Rwanda National Police has issued a detailed plan of road closures and alternative routes to help residents and motorists navigate the city.
{{Day 1 – Sunday, 21 September (9:00 AM – 5:15 PM)
}}
The main race route will run from BK Arena through Kimironko (Simba Supermarket), Rwahama, Chez Lando, Prince House, Sonatube, Nyanza, Gahanga (Master Steel), back to Sonatube, Rwandex, Kanogo, Main Roundabout, back to Kanogo, Mediheal, Women Foundation Ministries (Kwa Mignone), Ombudsman and KCC.
Truck traffic will be diverted through the Special Economic Zone, Birembo, Kinyinya, Gasanze, Nyacyonga, Gatsata, Nyabugogo and Giticyoni.
{{Day 2 – Monday, 22 September (9:30 AM – 4:45 PM)
}}
The route will start at BK Arena and pass through Kimironko (Simba supermarket), Rwahama, Chez Lando, Prince house, Sonatube, Nyanza, Gahanga Market, back to Sonatube, then to Rwandex, Kanogo, Mediheal, Women Foundation Ministries, Ombudsman, and KCC.
Alternative routes remain the same as Day 1. Truck diversions will be through the Free Zone, Birembo, Kinyinya, Gasanze, Nyacyonga, Gatsata, and Nyabugogo.
{{Day 3 – Tuesday, 23 September (9:45 AM – 4:45 PM)
}}
The route will cover BK Arena, Kimironko (Simba supermarket), Rwahama, Chez Lando, Prince house, Sonatube, Nyanza and back to Sonatube, Rwandex, Kanogo, Mediheal, Women Foundation Ministries (Kwa Mignone), Ombudsman and KCC.
Motorists can use Nyamata – Nyanza – Rebero – Gikondo – Rugunga – Biryogo – Downtown; or Kuri 12 – Kigali Parents – Kimironko Junction- Kimironko P/station – Nyabisindu – Gasabo District HQs – Former RDB – Gishushu – Golf – Kinamba – Yamaha – Downtown.
A third option runs from Kuri 12 through Giporoso, Kabeza, Niboye, Kicukiro Centre, Gatenga, Gikondo and Rugunga to CHUK – Downtown.
Trucks will follow the Special Economic Zone – Birembo – Kinyinya – Gasanze – Nyacyonga – Gatsata – Nyabugogo – Giticyoni route.
{{Day 4 – Wednesday, 24 September (8:00 AM – 5:15 PM)
}}
The race will start from KCC and pass through Gishushu, Chez Lando, Prince House, Sonatube, Nyanza, back to Sonatube, Rwandex, Kanogo, Mediheal, Women Foundation Ministries, Ombudsman and KCC. An additional circuit will include KCC – Gishushu – MTN, Mu kabuga ka Nyarutarama, the Golf area, SOS, MINAGRI, Ninzi, KABC, RIB, Mediheal, Women Foundation Ministries, Ombudsman, and KCC.
The route will extend from KCC through Gishushu, MTN, Mu kabuga ka Nyarutarama, Golf Circuit, SOS, MINAGRI, Ninzi, KABC, RIB, Mediheal, Women Foundation Ministries, Ombudsman and back to KCC.
Motorists can divert via Giporoso – Prince House – Sonatube – Kanogo – Kinamba – Yamaha – City Centre or via Giporoso – Chez Lando – Kimironko – Kibagabaga – Kagugu – Utexrwa – Kinamba – Yamaha – City Centre.
{{Day 6 – Friday, 26 September (7:00 AM – 4:45 PM)
}}
The race will follow the same course as Day 5, from KCC through Gishushu, MTN, Mu kabuga ka Nyarutarama, Golf Circuit, SOS, MINAGRI, Ninzi, KABC, RIB, Mediheal, Women Foundation Ministries, Ombudsman, and KCC.
Alternative roads remain Giporoso – Prince House – Sonatube – Kanogo – Kinamba – Yamaha – City Centre, or Giporoso – Chez Lando – Kimironko – Kibagabaga – Kagugu – Utexrwa – Kinamba – Yamaha – City Centre.
{{Day 7 – Saturday, 27 September (7:20 AM – 5:00 PM)
}}
Cyclists will follow the same route as the previous day, and motorists can continue using the same alternative roads.
{{Day 8 – Sunday, 28 September (8:30 AM – 5:30 PM)
}}
The final day will feature the most extensive course, starting from KCC to Gishushu, MTN, Mu kabuga ka Nyarutarama, Golf Circuit, SOS, MINAGRI, Ninzi, KABC, RIB, Sopetrade, Main Round about, Nyabugogo, Ruliba, Nervege, Kigali Pele Stadium, Tapi Rouge, Kimisagara, kwa Mutwe, ONATRACOM, Gitega, Main Round about, Sopetrade, Mediheal, Women Foundation Ministries, Ombudsman and back to KCC.
Alternative routes include:
* Ruliba – Mwendo – Rugendabari – Miduha Center – RP – Kanogo
* Giporoso – Prince House – Sonatube – Kanogo – Kinamba – Nyabugogo
* Giporoso – Chez Lando – Kimironko – Kibagabaga – Kagugu – Utexrwa – Kinamba – Nyabugogo
Light vehicles may also use Mukoto – Murambi – Masoro – Nyacyonga.
The Rwanda National Police has urged motorists to plan their journeys in advance and familiarise themselves with alternative routes to avoid delays. Officers will be on duty across the city to ensure smooth traffic flow and safety throughout the championships.
Jacqueline Nyirahabimana, who plays for Muhazi WFC, and Sandrine Mutuyimana, a player for Inyemera WFC and the Rwanda women’s national team, say they are often ridiculed over their bodies, with Jacqueline in particular targeted for having facial hair.
At many football pitches where Jacqueline plays, fans gather to cheer her on. Yet some spectators question her gender, claiming she is not a woman because she shaves her facial hair and has small breasts. For Sandrine, her speed and football skills, combined with a lean physique, also lead many to doubt that she is female.
In an interview with IGIHE, both players admitted that their appearance sometimes causes them embarrassment. They explained that constant remarks suggesting they are men make them feel uncomfortable, even though their passion for the game remains strong.
“People often ask me, Jacqueline, why don’t you have breasts, why do you have facial hair, why do you look like a boy? They wonder how I can play in women’s football. But I was born this way. It’s God who determines our bodies. No one can give themselves breasts. Everything comes from God, who created us,” Jacqueline said.
She added that while she ignores taunts during matches, she plays to inspire other girls with similar traits not to hide in shame.
“We live in a peaceful country where there is security everywhere. I no longer feel the shame I used to. People may stare at me daily, but I’ve accepted myself. I encourage others like me to also embrace who they are.”
Jacqueline recalled that the stigma began years ago when she attended Nyakiganda Secondary School in Nyagatare District, where both teachers and students often questioned her gender because of her appearance.
“I urge others like me to be confident, because people’s words cannot stop your progress. I also ask people to refrain from using hurtful language, calling someone a man when she is a girl. It’s deeply painful and should stop,” she said.
Sandrine explained that while fans’ stares do not disturb her during matches, she sometimes feels embarrassed off the field.
“What hurts is when I walk in public and see people staring, whispering that I don’t have breasts. It makes me feel bad because it’s not my fault. I am only 18 years old, and I believe they will come with time. There’s no reason to despair. To other girls like me, I say: don’t be ashamed of your bodies. We didn’t create ourselves.”
Both players appealed to the public to stop making derogatory remarks about girls with different physical traits. They encouraged young women with facial hair, deep voices, or other uncommon features to accept themselves and live confidently instead of hiding.
