Amir Ansari was set to compete at the World Championships — but will never make it to the start line.
Not because of injury, form, or lack of qualification, but because of paperwork. Because he is a refugee.

For many, the struggles of refugee athletes are invisible. There’s a common misconception that they are given special treatment or easy access to major competitions. The truth is the opposite. Refugee athletes must fight harder than anyone — not just in training and competition, but in life itself. They constantly face doubts about their legitimacy, uncertainty about travel permissions, and endless bureaucratic barriers.

Amir was just about to board his flight to Rwanda for the World Championships, where he had earned the right to compete against the world’s best cyclists. He had done everything required, trained relentlessly, and proven his level in races. Yet he was stopped by something completely outside his control: documents that never arrived in time.

Behind the smiles and determination lies a silent weight — the pain of always standing on the outside, of being seen as less than others, and of watching dreams slip away for reasons unrelated to sport.

As a team, we see the dedication and the daily battles our refugee athletes face. They carry a double burden — competing like everyone else, while constantly having to prove they belong. Talent should be enough. But for refugee athletes, too often, it isn’t.

A Strong Season Ignored

Amir finished 4th in the Swedish National Road Championships this year — in Sweden, his land of residence since 2015 and the home of his cycling career. Under normal circumstances, such a result would grant him recognition and valuable UCI points. But because he is a refugee, licensed in Sweden yet without permanent status, he was not acknowledged by the UCI rankings.

For us as a team, the most important thing is not the points — it’s the recognition of the effort, talent, and character Amir brings to the sport. Week after week he proves his level on the bike, and we are proud to stand by him as he continues his journey.

Amir now hopes the Swedish government will extend his residence papers, giving him the chance to compete at the European Championships. Without that, his season risks ending not because of performance, but because of circumstances no athlete should have to face.

Statement from Lucky Sport Cycling Team Management

“We stand fully behind Amir. He has earned his place at the very highest level of cycling, both through his results and through the dedication he shows every single day. We are incredibly proud of him — not only for what he achieves on the bike, but for the strength and perseverance he shows off it.

Refugee athletes face battles most people never see. Amir is proof that talent, hard work, and resilience can take you far. Our role as a team is to support him, stand by him, and make sure he knows he never rides alone.”