Break Dancing at the Olympics and Latin American Athletes
Break dancing, or breaking, is set to debut at the 2024 Paris Olympics, marking a significant milestone for both the sport and the Olympic movement. This inclusion reflects the International Olympic Committee’s (IOC) effort to modernize the games and attract a younger, more diverse audience, which includes the dynamic and culturally rich communities of Latin America.
For many Latin American athletes, the inclusion of breaking in the 2024 Paris Olympics is a moment of immense pride and excitement. It offers a new platform to showcase their skills on a global stage, a recognition that is particularly significant for regions where break dancing has become a substantial part of youth culture. Countries like Brazil, Mexico, and Colombia have vibrant breaking communities, with many young dancers honing their craft in urban centers and street competitions.
B-Boy El Niño, a prominent figure in the breaking community, emphasizes the impact of this change. Known off-stage as Alex Diaz, El Niño has been breaking since the age of six and has performed with artists like Missy Elliot and L.L. Cool J. He sees the Olympics as a monumental opportunity for the sport. “We’re all excited about it. It’s exciting to see it being put onto the world stage. I want it to be a part of my legacy,” says Diaz.
Breaking originated in the South Bronx of New York City in the early ’70s. It is known for its acrobatic moves, intricate footwork, and powerful spins, blending athleticism and creativity. Breaking gained significant attention when included in the 2018 Youth Olympic Games in Buenos Aires, drawing over a million viewers and surpassing many other sports in popularity. This success story set the stage for breaking’s inclusion in the 2024 Olympics, promising to bring the same energy and appeal to the biggest stage in sports.
Breaking Gains Respect
The journey of breaking into the Olympics began with its increasing recognition as a competitive sport. Major international competitions such as the Battle of the Year, the Red Bull BC One, and the World B-Boy Series played crucial roles in establishing breaking as a legitimate and respected discipline. These events highlighted the technical skill and physical demands of breaking, comparable to traditional Olympic sports.
The inclusion of breaking in the 2024 Olympics represents a shift towards inclusivity and cultural diversity, recognizing the global influence of hip-hop culture. It provides a platform for breakers to gain international recognition and opportunities previously limited to niche competitions. For Latin American athletes, this is a chance to showcase their talent and cultural heritage globally, potentially inspiring a new generation of breakers across the region and beyond.
El Niño, reflecting on the evolution of the sport, mentions the challenges and concerns within the community. “For the breaking community as a whole, we were excited but also skeptical. We wanted to try to keep our sport and art form as close to the essence of the dance as possible. That was our main request,” he said. The balancing act between preserving the authentic spirit of breaking and adapting to the formal structure of the Olympics is a concern shared by many.
The Road to Paris
In the Olympics, breaking will feature both men’s and women’s competitions, with athletes competing in one-on-one battles. Each battle will be judged based on technique, creativity, and musicality. Judges will evaluate the moves’ complexity, the performance’s originality, and how well the dancers synchronize their moves with the music.
El Niño elaborates on the judging system: “You’re also looking at the fundamentals. What they call performativity — character, creativity, your presence on stage — all play a big role in how you get scored. Execution — like if you do a move and it’s not super smooth — you get tacked a couple of points for that. That counts for about 60% of your score.”
The Paris 2024 Olympics will showcase the best breakers from around the world and highlight the cultural roots and significance of breaking. Diaz encourages people to appreciate the complexity and effort involved in the sport. “I think that part of it is that we did a good job promoting these athletes and how cool it is. It’s tough to do what we do. I encourage anyone to try it, so it was important to get other people to support that part of it.”
A Missed Opportunity in Los Angeles
However, the breaking community was disappointed to learn that breaking will not be included in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. This decision was particularly disheartening given Los Angeles’ significant role in the history and development of break dancing. The city has been a cultural mecca for the art form, fostering talent and innovation within the breaking scene. “It’s sad because break dancing started in the U.S., and many break dancers are upset and sad about it. L.A. is also a hub for it. We thought we would have more support,” Diaz said. Despite this setback, Diaz and many others remain hopeful for its inclusion in future Olympics, like in 2032.
El Niño’s journey to the Olympics has been fraught with challenges. Unfortunately, Diaz will have to look to 2032 for his chance to win the gold, as he was sidelined with an injury and cannot compete in Paris. His story reflects the broader struggles and triumphs of many athletes within the breaking community, particularly those from Latin America who face additional hurdles in gaining recognition and support.
The journey of break dancing from the streets of New York to the Olympic stage is a testament to its evolution and the growing recognition of its cultural and athletic value. The 2024 Olympics will be a historic moment for breaking, marking the beginning of a new era for this vibrant and dynamic sport. As El Niño notes, “The dance and the sport have grown and evolved so much since the ’80s. You have to be in good shape. A lot of it comes down to stamina. Most battles are about the dance moves, but who can last that long because it’s tough.”
Including breaking in the Olympics represents more than just a new sport; it symbolizes a cultural shift towards recognizing and valuing diverse forms of expression. For Latin American athletes, this is a moment of validation and opportunity. It provides a platform to showcase their unique styles and cultural influences, contributing to the global tapestry of breaking.
As we look towards Paris 2024, the anticipation and excitement within the breaking community are palpable. “It’s a huge deal for everyone, no matter how they got there,” said break dancer B-boy El Niño. “Some athletes, like me, are supported by our sponsors. Red Bull helped and supported my journey to qualify for the Olympics. Some athletes entirely support themselves. To us, that’s not what matters.”
Also read: New Essential and Exciting Updates for Latin Americans on the Paris Olympics
The road to the Olympics has been long and challenging for many breakers, but the inclusion of breaking in the 2024 Games is a testament to their dedication and resilience. It represents a significant step forward for the sport and offers a glimpse into the future of the Olympics, where diverse and dynamic sports can share the global stage. As Latin American athletes prepare to compete, they carry with them the hopes and dreams of their communities, ready to make their mark on Olympic history.
