Noah Hoffman: Former Olympic cross-country skier is 'scared' for athletes who speak out at Beijing 2022

Former Olympic cross-country skier Noah Hoffman says he is "scared" for the safety of athletes who might be contemplating speaking out about human rights issues during Beijing 2022. Hoffman, who retired from competitive skiing after the PyeongChang Games in 2018, says he is concerned by the human rights record of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) and the lack of support shown by the International Olympic Committee (IOC).

Earlier this month, a Beijing 2022 official said athletes who demonstrate behavior that "is against the Olympic spirit, especially against Chinese laws and regulations" will face "certain punishment."
The IOC has subsequently reiterated that any form of protest must not take place during competition or medal ceremonies, but the Olympic Committee has said athletes are free to express their opinions during press conferences and interviews.

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