"Individual successes of Peruvian athletes in Paris 2024 highlight a lack of state support."

In the context of the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, the stories of Peruvian athletes have gained particular relevance, highlighting both their individual achievements and the deficiencies in the state support system for sports. While some athletes, like Stefano Peschiera, have shone with their performance in competition, others have pointed out the lack of support they have faced on their journey to this monumental sporting event. Peschiera's case is emblematic; he is the only Peruvian medalist so far in these games. Despite his success, it has been revealed that he has had to cover part of his expenses, which once again highlights the disconnect between the state and the needs of its athletes. The Minister of Education acknowledged that there were government contributions, but the reality is that comprehensive support is still a distant dream. On the other hand, racewalker Mary Luz Andía has been clear in expressing that her remarkable performance, finishing in twelfth place, was achieved "despite not having the support of the IPD" (Peruvian Institute of Sports). This statement underscores how, often, the individual effort of athletes becomes a heroic act in an environment where infrastructure and resources are limited. Furthermore, her colleague Kimberly García, who did receive government support, has highlighted the disparity in access to resources that still persists in Peruvian sports. The situation of surfer Alonso Correa is similar, as despite being one of the beneficiaries of the IPD program, his federation could not cover the costs of essential equipment for his training. This recurring pattern of athletes having to deal with a lack of support and resources raises questions about the effectiveness of state policies aimed at sports. Evelyn Inga, another prominent racewalker who achieved an Olympic diploma, has expressed that, despite being part of the same program, the lack of economic stability is a constant obstacle. The inconsistency in funding and the absence of a clear plan for each discipline are aspects that urgently need to be addressed if Peru wishes to continue seeing triumphs in the sporting arena. The reality is that, many times, victories are viewed as individual accomplishments, where athletes stand out for their talent and perseverance, often amidst a system that seems rather indifferent. This creates a paradox: while millions of Peruvians celebrate the achievements of their compatriots, recognition focuses on personal effort rather than true collective support. However, despite these criticisms and the lack of robust backing, the euphoria that Peruvians feel for the achievements of their athletes is palpable. The joy of a medal, even in a sport that many may not have deep knowledge of, reflects a desire for unity and national pride. In this sense, Peschiera's medal, as well as the feats of other athletes, are also reasons for collective celebration, even though the acknowledgment that these successes are the result of individual effort remains firm. Amidst this mix of pride and criticism, there is an important lesson to be learned. The achievements of Peruvian athletes should serve as a call to action for the state to reevaluate its commitment to sports. Instead of viewing support as a handout, it is necessary to establish an ambitious and sustained investment that allows each athlete to reach their full potential without the limitations they currently face. Thus, after each individual success, there remains the reflection that as long as Peruvian sports do not receive the boost it deserves, we will continue to see triumphs that, although celebrated, do not reflect a collective effort. Thanking Stefano and all those who have excelled in Paris, the hope resides in the belief that, one day, these achievements will feel like victories of a united Peru, backed by a state committed to supporting its athletes.