The Perspective of an Olympic Champion in Times of Conflict

From Dubai to Uncertainty: An Olympic Champion's Perspective in Times of Conflict

Samuel Sánchez recounts the tense calm experienced in the United Arab Emirates in the face of the escalation of war in the Middle East.

The echo of the war in the Middle East has resonated even in the luxurious skyscrapers of Dubai, the scene where former professional cyclist Samuel Sánchez is with his wife, accompanying his eldest son who works for the multinational Havas Medias. The Olympic road champion in Beijing 2008, with the serenity that characterizes him, shares his experience from his residence in a privileged location, overlooking the canal that flows between Business Bay and the iconic Downtown.

Knowing the United Arab Emirates since 2013, Sánchez, affectionately nicknamed “Samu,” describes the situation as a “normal life, within a situation that is not normal.” The moments of greatest anxiety were experienced last Saturday, when the news of the US attack on Iran became known. The cyclist tells how, after an intense 100-kilometer bike ride with friends, his mobile phone became a hive of information.

“The cell phones started to smoke,” he comments, while the news continued and the sound of missile and drone interceptions could be heard in the distance. This narrative, which could cause concern in anyone, is narrated by Sánchez with remarkable integrity. “Now we are waiting, waiting for notifications from the local government and the Spanish embassy,” he adds, underlining the uncertainty that surrounds a conflict of global scope.

Communication with the Spanish embassy remains fluid through a designated spokesperson, who channels queries and provides the necessary guidelines. The local government issued a widespread alert to mobile devices, similar to those for climate emergencies in Spain. The images of missiles and drones being neutralized in the sky became a harsh reality. Given the risk of falling debris, residents were advised to stay in their homes. Impacts were reported in a luxury hotel and at the airport.

The adaptation to the new normal became evident on Sunday night, when the authorities opted for online classes and encouraged teleworking. However, the service sector, such as restaurants and shops, continued its usual activity. “Here people lead a normal life,” Sánchez observes, although he recognizes the underlying unrest. “There are no food restrictions, and the feeling is that you continue leading a normal life, although you know that it is not and they recommend that you inform yourself through official channels.”

The comparison with the Covid-19 pandemic emerges as a natural parallel. “It takes you out of your comfort zone, and you worry about yourself and the whole world, because this conflict doesn't just affect two countries.” Despite the tension, routine prevails on the streets of Dubai. A girl is seen running and workers working, reflecting an apparent normality. “Everyone is the owner of their actions. They recommend that we not be on the street much,” explains Sánchez, who, despite the concern generated by new situations, trusts the management of the authorities.

The alarms in Dubai, according to the former cyclist, have not sounded loudly again. “I trust that the situation will stabilize, that life will become more normal and that the airspace will open,” he hopes, hoping that his family and all those in a similar situation can meet again or move freely. The experience in Dubai, marked by uncertainty and resilience, offers a unique perspective on how life continues, even under the shadow of international conflict.

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