Following the announcement that Australian Sharni Pinfold had stopped competing due to misogyny (see here), the International Motorcycling Federation published a press release this morning, of which here is the translation into French.
The FIM is closely monitoring the situation following the statement made on social media by Australian rider Sharni Pinfold, which has sparked strong emotions within the motorcycling community. Gender equality is a core value for the FIM, which constantly strives to ensure the well-being of all riders and stakeholders. The FIM was shocked by this news and takes Ms Pinfold's statement very seriously. The FIM and the Australian Motorcycling Federation have maintained close contact with the young motorcyclist in order to understand the facts that led Sharni to such discouragement. We would like to emphasize that Sharni Pinfold can count on the unconditional support of the FIM to overcome this ordeal.
The FIM recalls that the practice of motorcycling is open to all without discrimination and condemns any form of behavior contrary to these values. Any form of discrimination based on political, religious, sexual or racial grounds will never be tolerated. Since 2006, the FIM Women's Motorcycle Commission (CFM) has worked hard to create equal opportunities and promote equal treatment for women who participate in motorcycle-related activities.
“The FIM does not accept any form of discrimination against our motorcyclists, regardless of their gender. We are a biker family, everyone is welcome. No inappropriate or disturbing comments or actions will be tolerated. Our goal is to support all bikers and enable them to pursue their dreams and keep their motivation high. The FIM Women's Motorcycle Commission, together with the FIM and its stakeholders, continues to work hard to improve gender equality in our sport at all levels”, concluded the director of the CFM, Ms. Nita Korhonen.
Mrs Pinfold added : " By experiencing what I have experienced during my own journey, my hope is to be able to contribute to raising awareness of the disrespectful and misogynistic treatment of women. I really hope I can drive much-needed improvement throughout the motorcycle industry and all sectors where women are treated differently. It's not just me, there are many other women who have been treated poorly, and so I hope I can empower others to know the importance and value of self-esteem.
It would be easy for me to sit back and point the finger at those responsible, but I think true strength is determined by how we respond. I'm not here to be a victim, I'm here to stand up for what's right and extend that message to all women. I am grateful to the FIM for its support and for the measures it has taken, with a clear focus on equality for all. This is what we stand for. »
