FINA rejects Soul Cap for international competition, drawing criticism

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A black-owned swim cap company said FINA would not approve its caps for international competition, saying the cap did “not follow the natural shape of the head.”

Soul Cap is a UK-based swim cap brand that focuses on extra-large caps for swimmers with “thick, curly and voluminous hair”. The company was hoping to gain FINA approval to allow the cap to be used in international competitions like the Olympics. But Soul Cap says FINA, the international governing body for aquatic sports, would not consider the cap for approval.

According to Soul Cap, the FINA rejection stated that “athletes competing in international events have never used or need to use caps of this size and configuration” and that the shape of the cap does not “follow the natural shape of the head”.

The move drew fierce criticism from observers, who say the caps are an important step in promoting racial diversity in a sport that has struggled in this area.

Maritza Correia became the first black American swimmer to set a world record in 2000. Correia, also known by her wife name Maritza McClendon, said the FINA ruling showed the sport still had a problem. structural giving under-represented groups a voice in decision-making.

“This is yet another prime example of systemic racism,” McClendon said. “The reason for the rejection isn’t a technical reason or a timing issue, it’s a subjective one, and that’s not fair.

“There is a bigger conversation that has to take place, and the representation has to be at the table.”

“Making this sport more inclusive is important globally,” she said. “We need to recognize and celebrate when solutions are offered that meet the needs of under-represented populations. We need to work together for a more inclusive sport, not to continue to be part of the problem. “

“We believe this confirms a lack of diversity in the sport,” Black Swimming Association founder Danielle Obetold told The Guardian this week, saying hair and swim caps can be significant obstacles for swimmers. black people connecting to sport.

If the (official swimming bodies) are talking about representation, they need to talk to the communities to find out what barriers are preventing us from engaging. Hair is an important issue for our community.

FINA today issued a statement acknowledging the criticisms and saying it “is reviewing the situation with regard to ‘Soul Cap’ and similar products.” FINA also states that the caps are not limited to “recreational or educational purposes”, but only at international level competitions.

FINA takes note of comments and feedback regarding the use of Soul Cap swim caps in FINA competitions.

FINA is committed to ensuring that all aquatic athletes have access to appropriate swimwear for competition where such swimwear does not confer a competitive advantage. FINA is currently reviewing the situation with Soul Cap and similar products, understanding the importance of inclusiveness and representation.

There are no restrictions on Soul Cap swim caps for recreational and educational purposes. FINA appreciates the efforts of Soul Cap and other suppliers to ensure that everyone has the chance to enjoy the water. FINA will also discuss with the maker of the Soul Cap the use of its products through the FINA Development Centers.

FINA hopes to integrate its review of Soul Cap and similar products as part of broader initiatives to ensure there are no barriers to participation in swimming, which is both a sport and a vital skill.

Soul Cap says FINA’s rejection comments made no mention of a competitive advantage. We followed up with the company to confirm when the caps were rejected and will update this story when we have more information.

The founders of the swim cap company released a statement on social media, stressing their goal of promoting diversity in sport and ensuring that “swimmers of all skill levels do not have to choose between the sport or the sport. ‘they love and their hair “.

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