German runner calls for ‘more respect’ after seeing online racial abuse of teammates
BIRMINGHAM, England (AP) — German middle-distance runner Smilla Kolbe has condemned the online racial abuse directed at some of her teammates at the European championships. The…
German middle-distance runner Smilla Kolbe has called for "more respect" after witnessing online racial abuse directed at her teammates during the European Athletics Championships in Birmingham, England. Kolbe, who is white, addressed the issue following her semifinal heat in the 800 meters, expressing her disappointment in the "unbelievable comments" she had read under some athletes' profiles.
Despite the support she and her teammates were receiving, Kolbe emphasized the need for greater respect, particularly given the platform they represent Germany on. She noted that she hopes her statement would encourage others to be more considerate and celebrate the athletes' achievements.
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