Tariku Novales, a Galician marathoner born in Ethiopia, surged into the spotlight after breaking Spain’s Sunday marathon record. At just 24 years old, a moment that signals the emergence of a gifted long-distance runner, his early triumph already hints at a promising future in one of athletics’ most storied disciplines. The achievement stands out not only for its speed but also for the resilience it demonstrated during a race that appeared to hinge on endurance, pace, and mental fortitude. The path of a rising star often runs through the toughest miles, and Novales’s breakthrough is a testament to that truth.
With greater public visibility comes increased scrutiny, and the online world can be a noisy, even hostile, arena. Because Novales is of Ethiopian origin and Black, the conversation surrounding him on social platforms sometimes veers into comments that question his Spanish identity and respond with racial stereotypes. The contemporary public square has a familiar rhythm: praise mixed with prejudice, support juxtaposed with insult, and a chorus of voices that reflect broader social tensions rather than the race against the clock on a course. Novales himself chose to share a window into this reality by posting examples of the xenophobic remarks he encountered on his X account, alongside messages of encouragement from supporters. His response was swift, pointed, and filled with a clear sense of dignity. “Spain is NOT a country racist. There is a lot of racism in Spain. What’s different?” he wrote, underscoring the distinction between national character and social conduct while highlighting the universal challenge of discrimination in public life.
Spain is NOT a racist country. There is a lot of racism in Spain. What’s different? pic.twitter.com/32bveZEXxe
— Tari (@TARIKU_) December 8, 2023
Novales’s experience is part of a broader pattern in sport where high visibility can attract controversy. It echoes similar moments involving other athletes who have spoken out when xenophobia or racism intersects with their careers. In 2021, Ana Peleteiro publicly defended colleagues facing hostile remarks, including Ray Zapata and a Galician athlete, while Belén Toimil also stepped forward in defense during heated discussions around race and nationality in athletics. When Mo Katir faced xenophobic targeting, the sport community again saw athletes rally to stand with one another. These episodes, though painful, often catalyze conversations about inclusion, support networks for athletes, and the responsibility of fans and media to critique content rather than people. They remind readers that success on the track can be accompanied by a larger social duty: to confront prejudice wherever it appears and to protect the dignity of athletes who represent more than just their sport. [citation: sports racism cases and athlete responses, 2021–2023]