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Turkish athletes’ outfits for Paris Olympics spark controversy

Turkish athletes' outfits for Paris Olympics spark controversy Turkish athletes pose in front of Team Türkiye, Paris, France, July 26, 2024. (Photo obtained from @OA_BAK via Twitter)
By Newsroom
Jul 27, 2024 11:00 AM

The outfits designed for Turkish athletes at the Paris Olympic Games have sparked a range of reactions. Created by the renowned fashion brand Vakko, the uniforms have faced criticism, with some people comparing them to pajamas.

At the 33rd edition of the Olympic Games, the world’s premier sporting event, the Turkish national team, consisting of 102 athletes, crossed the Seine River during the opening ceremony.

Criticism of Olympic outfits

The Turkish team’s opening ceremony outfits, designed by Vakko, have faced disapproval on social media. Many have expressed their displeasure, with some noting that the outfits resemble pajamas. Critics have also argued that the designs fail to reflect Turkish culture. There have been strong reactions against the Türkiye Olympic Committee’s decision to approve these designs.

Turkish athletes' outfits for Paris Olympics spark controversy
Turkish athletes Mete Gazoz and Busenaz Surmeneli pose before the opening ceremony of the Olympics, Paris, France, July 26, 2024. (Photo via @gencliksporbak/Twitter)

The color choices and striped patterns used by Vakko have further fueled the debate. People have widely discussed the selection of these colors and the use of stripes. Some commentators have even drawn comparisons between the outfits and those worn in historical concentration camps.

Social media users compare Türkiye’s dress code at the Paris Olympics to the dress code in concentration camps

Vakko has not yet addressed the criticisms.

Last Updated:  Jul 30, 2024 1:36 AM