UAE Cyclist Safiya Al Sayegh Qualifies for Paris 2024 Olympics

Safiya Al Sayegh, a 22-year-old UAE cyclist, has carved her name in history by gaining qualification for the road race at the Paris 2024 Olympics. Safiya is the first Emirati woman and just the country's second rider to reach this milestone, following in the footsteps of compatriot Yousif Mirza.

Safiya’s career has been distinguished by multiple historic firsts, including becoming the UAE's first professional female cyclist and the first to secure a contract with a UCI World Team for women. Her collection of essential points secures her place in the forthcoming Olympics, when she will be one of 90 women participating in the 158km road race—a historic event with equal field sizes for men and women for the first time.

Safiya took to Instagram to express her surprise and thankfulness, writing, "Am I dreaming? I'm going to the Olympics?!? And the first female Emirati cyclist?!?" She emphasized the effort and hard work that went into her success, highlighting that aspirations are possible with patience and support.

Safiya’s Olympic qualifying comes on the heels of her World Tour debut with UAE Team ADQ and a strong showing at the Asian Games in Hangzhou. As she continues to pave the way for Emirati women in cycling, Safiya looks forward to representing her country in Paris next year, calling it a "goal come true."