23.07.2021 – 21:00
Politics has always been part of the Olympic Games, with symbols and athletes who have displayed different views. “Tokyo 2020” was no exception.
Algerian judoka Fethi Nourine has officially withdrawn from the Olympics before starting his race. He made the decision after the 73kg draw would most likely put him against an Israeli rival, Tohar Butbul.
Nourine, would face on Monday first the rival from Sudan, Mohamed Abdalrasool (in the first duel) and then the Israeli Butbul. Speaking to the media, the Algerian confirmed that this is a political decision taken by him, in support of Palestine.
“I worked hard to get to the Olympics, but the Palestinian issue is bigger than that,” he said. “I do not meet an Israeli.”
