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“A 12-year-Old Having To Die Is A Red Line”: Olympic Swimmer Farida Osman Speaks Out Following Tragic Loss of Young Swimmer Youssef Mohamed
The tragic death of 12-year-old swimmer Youssef Mohamed has shaken Egypt’s sports community, prompting Olympic champion Farida Osman to call the incident a “red line” and demand urgent change in the country’s swimming system.
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Farida Osman Breaks Her Silence
Farida Osman took to social media to express her devastation over the loss, explaining that although she was traveling, she had been following every update closely.
She said that reaching a point where “a 12-year-old dies at a national championship” is unacceptable and must be a moment where the entire system takes a stand.
Farida emphasized that this tragedy cannot pass without accountability, adding that she strongly supports the young swimmers who have been bravely speaking up and calling for reform.
Standing beside Farida in the video, her mother also delivered an emotional message. She shared her empathy for Youssef’s parents, saying she understands the fear and pressure families carry while supporting their children in competitive sports.
Both Farida and her mother expressed their wish to personally reach out to Youssef’s family to offer condolences and support.
Their message comes amid growing national anger, with athletes, coaches, parents, and young swimmers demanding immediate improvements in safety protocols and emergency response measures.
What Happened to Youssef Mohamed?
Youssef Mohamed tragically passed away during an under-12 national championship after reportedly fainting at the finish line. In the critical moments that followed, no one noticed he had slipped underwater.
Lifeguards were not fully prepared, and the on-site ambulance lacked essential medical equipment, including a defibrillator.
Medics eventually transported him to the hospital, where attempts to revive him failed.
Youssef’s passing has left the nation heartbroken, and has ignited urgent calls for change to ensure no child’s life is ever endangered again in the name of sport.
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