The International Swimming Federation rejected an application from Soul Cap seeking to allow its swim caps, which are inclusive caps designed for swimmers with Afro, natural Black, voluminous, thick or curly hair, for use in official competitions, including the Tokyo Olympics.
FINA ruled the caps don't follow the "natural form of the head" and added to its "best knowledge the athletes competing at the international events never used, neither require ... caps of such size and configuration," per Priya Elan of The Guardian.
FINA's guidelines are followed by the International Olympic Committee for all swimming events at the Summer Games, meaning the caps won't be allowed during competition in Tokyo.