Nearly five years ago, the Taliban seized control of Kabul and imposed Sharia law in Afghanistan. The women's cycling team, which was due to take part in international competitions, found itself more threatened than ever before. An unprecedented plan was put in place to smuggle the professional cyclists out of the country in complete secrecy. Reporters Matteo Born and Alain Rimbert look back at this incredible operation.
In August 2021, the Taliban seized control of Afghanistan's capital Kabul after 20 years of war. Any hopes of emancipation for the Afghan people were abruptly dashed, giving way to a systemic crackdown. Women and athletes became particular targets, accused of embodying "deviant" practices.
