Newsroom
A taxi driver in Greece refused to take Paralympic swimmer Karolina Pelendritou and her guide dog, prompting sharp criticism after the athlete shared the encounter online.
Pelendritou, who is visually impaired, said the driver stopped her from getting into the cab and asked, “What will I do if the dog pees inside the car?”
The Cypriot athlete, a four-time Paralympic medalist, reminded him of his legal obligation. “You know what a guide dog means? You have no right to refuse to take the dog, and if I call the police, you’ll face immediate charges,” she said.
The driver rejected her warning. “Immediate charges? The taxi is mine, and I’m in charge,” he responded.
Her post quickly spread on social media, where many users condemned the driver’s behavior.
Greek law requires all public and private transport operators, including taxis, to admit guide and assistance dogs free of charge when they wear an identifying harness or vest. Drivers who deny access may face penalties.
Pelendritou, often called the “Princess of the Pool,” has won three gold medals, a silver and two bronze across four Paralympic Games. She became the first living Cypriot featured on a national stamp in 2004 and has represented European Union youth programs as an ambassador.
