EOC REFUGEE TEAM ATHLETE CINDY NGAMBA SECURES A SPOT AT THE OLYMPIC GAMES

Cindy Ngamba, who represented the European Olympic Committees (EOC) Refugee Team at the European Games Kraków-Małopolska 2023, has made history by becoming the first Boxing Refugee Team member to qualify for the Olympic Games. 

Ngamba was one of three EOC Refugee Team members in Poland in 2023, where she carried the Team’s flag at the Opening Ceremony. She will now represent the International Olympic Committee Refugee Olympic Team at Paris 2024. The groundbreaking achievement unfolded at the Boxing Road to Paris 2024 First World Qualification Tournament in Busto Arsizio, Italy, where Ngamba secured her qualification by winning a gripping quarter-final fight. Ngamba’s victory is a testament to her unwavering commitment and skill, stopping the formidable Valentina Khalova of Kazakhstan to secure her place at the Paris 2024 Olympics.  

Ngamba now lives and trains in the United Kingdom, having been born in Cameroon. Her journey to the top has been marked by resilience and determination, serving as a beacon of hope for many young athletes. Ngamba’s story illustrates that perseverance can lead to extraordinary achievements and reflects the transformative impact of sport on individual lives. 

At Kraków-Małopolska 2023, Ngamba competed in the 75kg category and left an indelible mark on the event. 

As the EOC celebrates this historic achievement, the spotlight remains on the Refugee Team’s incredible athletes, emphasising their inspiring journeys and the profound impact of their presence on the Olympic stage. 

EOC President Spyros Capralos said:

“It is truly inspiring to see Cindy Ngamba qualify for the Olympic Games Paris 2024 in boxing and make history in the process. The EOC is committed to giving opportunities to refugee athletes and focusing on the unique role that sport can play in driving social cohesion and bringing communities together. 

“We were honoured to host the first continental Refugee Team at the European Games last summer as a sign of our commitment and will all be supporting Cindy as she vies for glory in Paris this summer. We look forward to continuing our work with the Olympic Refuge Foundation and ensuring refugee athletes are represented at future editions of our events.”