Polish Cyclist Beaten in Ostrava After Attackers Mistake Yellow-Blue Cap for Ukrainian Symbol

On Saturday evening in Ostrava, a Polish citizen named Jakub Chajsig was assaulted after his attackers mistook his yellow-and-blue hat — the colors of Upper Silesia — for Ukrainian symbolism, shouting that he was "a Ukrainian and a Banderite." The Polish outlet Gazeta.pl reported the incident on X, citing the victim.

According to Polish media reports, Chajsig was walking back from a shop when an unknown assailant struck him in the head. He fell to the ground and was then kicked repeatedly. The case has been handed over to Czech police, who have not yet issued an official comment.

Injured During a Charity Bike Ride

Chajsig had not set out on his journey by chance: on Wednesday, September 9, he began a charity cycling tour called "The Upper Silesian Route for Marcelina," aiming to cover 800 kilometers along the historic borders of Upper Silesia. He dedicated the ride to his pregnant partner, Marcelina, who has been diagnosed with cervical cancer — the fundraiser was meant to cover her treatment costs.

Just two days after setting off, on Friday, he was forced to cut the trip short following the attack. Andrea Vojkovská, spokesperson for Ostrava's City Hospital, confirmed that the victim was examined at the trauma department on Saturday afternoon and later released for outpatient treatment.

Donations Double After the Attack

Despite the ordeal, Chajsig still managed to achieve his main goal. The fundraiser on the Pomagam.pl platform had originally aimed to collect 300,000 zlotys for his partner's treatment. After news of the assault spread across Polish media and social networks, donations nearly doubled the original target. The couple plans to use the funds for her cancer treatment.

Read also: 9 Best Cycling Routes Around Prague: From the Vltava Embankments to Karlštejn Castle

Source: novinky.cz