Safiya Al Sayegh, a 22-year-old Emirati professional cyclist, made history by qualifying for the 2024 Paris Olympic Games, becoming the first Emirati female cyclist to do so. Safiya, who rides for UAE Team ADQ, also recently graduated in graphic designing from the University of Dubai. In an exclusive interview, Safiya talks about her family’s support, her passion for cycling, and the responsibility of being a trailblazer for young Emirati girls.
Growing up in a sporting household with her ex-professional footballer father, Safiya credits sports for improving her focus and academic performance. She emphasizes the importance of balance and pursuing passion in life. Safiya aims to inspire more girls to be active and pursue their dreams, despite self-doubt and societal challenges. As a role model, she hopes to motivate others to believe in their abilities and follow their passions.
Despite not having as much racing experience as some competitors, Safiya’s goal for the Paris Games is to complete the grueling 158-km road race and represent the UAE to the best of her abilities. She acknowledges the challenges ahead but is determined to showcase her skills on the Olympic stage. Safiya’s journey to the Olympics was made possible by the support of her family, particularly her mother, who played a crucial role in convincing her father to allow Safiya to pursue her dreams.
Reflecting on her inspirations, Safiya mentions athletes like Michael Phelps and Yousuf Mirza, the first professional Emirati cyclist who qualified for the Olympics in Rio. She also looks up to Marta Bastianelli, a former teammate who achieved success in cycling even after becoming a mother. Safiya draws inspiration from their stories of dedication, commitment, and perseverance, proving that success in sports is achievable with hard work and determination.
In a society where more mothers are encouraging their daughters to pursue sports, Safiya highlights the importance of family support in nurturing young athletes. She believes that having a supportive family can serve as a driving force for individuals to overcome challenges and achieve their dreams. Safiya’s journey to the Paris Olympics serves as a testament to the power of passion, perseverance, and belief in oneself, inspiring a new generation of Emirati sportswomen to break barriers and reach for the stars.
