Numerous prominent sports figures have expressed their solidarity with Palestine, which has faced a brutal Israeli offensive following the Hamas attack on October 7 of last year.
Athletes from various sports, including Formula One, tennis, football, and basketball, have publicly supported Palestine, despite the limitations and restrictions imposed by their governing bodies.
In the past year, Israeli strikes, shelling, and ground assaults have resulted in the deaths of nearly 42,000 Palestinians in the Gaza Strip, including at least 400 athletes, while much of the region’s sports infrastructure has been destroyed amid the relentless attacks.
“Enough is enough”
Among the voices calling for an end to the violence is seven-time Formula One champion Lewis Hamilton, who spoke out after seven months of the offensive. He urged an end to the attacks, which have led to a major humanitarian crisis. “Enough is enough. We cannot continue to watch this tragedy unfold and not speak up. The trauma and terror so many, especially innocent children, are experiencing is horrifying. This must stop—for the children, their families, and their lives,” he wrote in an Instagram story on May 28.
In a more visual show of support, eight-time NBA All-Star Kyrie Irving wore a traditional Palestinian keffiyeh during a post-match press conference on November 18.
Football legend Eric Cantona used his Instagram platform in May to criticize pro-Israeli support amid the devastation in Gaza. He asked, “Is there anyone left to defend these criminals? Is there anyone who would not condemn their actions? Are there still states that arm these criminals? Is there anyone who would not call this a genocide? Is there anyone left who would not shed a tear in the face of such horror?”
Karim Benzema, the 2022 Ballon d’Or winner and veteran striker, also voiced his concerns, praying for the residents of Gaza, who have become victims of indiscriminate Israeli bombings. “All our prayers for the inhabitants of Gaza, who are once again victims of these unjust bombings that spare no women or children,” he posted on X last year.
Coco Gauff, the 2023 US Open women’s singles champion, emphasized the importance of raising public awareness and pushing for change for Palestinians. She told UAE state-owned newspaper The National, “I feel like it’s very ignorant to say you’re not aware because it is everywhere; you see it on the news. It’s important for us, as privileged civilians, to do our research and continue to demand our leaders make a change, and I will advocate for that.”
Many athletes have also contributed financial support. Tunisian tennis star Ons Jabeur announced in November 2023 that she would donate part of her prize money from the Women’s Tennis Association (WTA) Finals to support the Palestinian cause.
