SF&OC condemns violent attack on Hong Kong athletes by Turkmen players

The Sports Federation and Olympic Committee of Hong Kong, China, has "strongly condemned" the deliberate attack on Hong Kong athletes by Turkmen players during the ongoing Asian Winter Games in Harbin and is demanding immediate action.

In a statement issued on Monday, SF&OC emphasized that the leader of the Hong Kong delegation, Kenneth Fok Kai-kong, has escalated the issue to the International Ice Hockey Federation, the Olympic Council of Asia, and event organizers. 

The committee is urging for "disciplinary measures based on factual evidence to ensure athletes’ safety."

“SF&OC has also requested the event organizers to impose necessary punishments regarding Turkmen athletes’ deliberate attacks on our players, which resulted in injuries,” the statement read.

This condemnation follows an incident in which Hong Kong ice hockey players were assaulted by Turkmen athletes during the post-game handshake ritual after Hong Kong's decisive 5-1 victory over Turkmenistan in the Men’s Group C prelim round on Sunday.

State media Xinhua News Agency reported that several Hong Kong athletes fell to the ice during the ensuing brawl, as Turkmen players struck them, with some even wielding their sticks. 

The referee announced that three Turkmen players received a five-minute major penalty and a 20-minute misconduct penalty for fighting, with additional disciplinary action under review.

Videos circulating on mainland social media platform Xiaohongshu captured the scene, showing spectators booing Turkmen players during the altercation and cheering for Hong Kong athletes, who waved to the audience after the conflict.

Two Hong Kong athletes sustained injuries during the fight but are currently in "stable condition" after receiving treatment from team doctors and local hospitals, as confirmed by SF&OC.

“We are proud of the Hong Kong athletes for showing restraint and adhering to the Olympic spirit during this incident,” the committee added.

(Ayra Wang)