The Norwegian beach handball team decided that their uniforms were too skimpy and they wore shorts instead of bikini bottoms; they are now being fined $1766 for breaking uniform regulations.
The International Handball Federation’s rules state, “Athletes’ uniforms and accessories contribute to helping athletes increase their performance as well as remain coherent with the sportive and attractive image of the sport.”
Women’s uniforms are specifically described: “Female athletes must wear bikini bottoms that are with a close fit and cut on an upward angle toward the top of the leg. The side width must be of a maximum of 10 centimetres.”
However, and here’s where we get stupid: men’s uniforms “if not too baggy, can be longer but must remain 10 centimetres above the kneecap.”
Basically: women, wear underwear. Men, you can wear normal human shorts.
The Norwegian players said they felt the uniforms were too revealing; they said they felt sexualized and uncomfortable.
Norway spoke to the European Handball Federation and requested that the team be permitted shorts. The Federation said no and reminded them of the rules.
At first, Norway complied with regulations. But at the game with Spain for the bronze in Bulgaria, they chose to wear shorts.
The European Handball Association’s Disciplinary Commission then decided that the team violated the uniform regulations and each team member was fined.
The Norwegian Handball Federation president Kare Geir Lio is on the players’ side. He said, “Of course we would pay any fine. We are all in the same boat.
“The most important thing is to have equipment that athletes are comfortable with.”
The Norwegian Handball Federation wrote on Instagram:
“We are very proud of these girls who, during the European Championships in Beach Handball, raised their voices and announced that enough is enough! We, the Norwegian Handball Federation, stand behind you and support you. Together we will continue to fight to change the international regulations for clothing, so that players can play in the clothes they are comfortable with!”
Social media has come out in support; even a member of parliament spoke up for the players.