VIP List

Sylvain ANDRÉ

Olympic Medalist

BMX

Awards:

Elite
4x French champion in a row 2019-2022
2018 World Champion
2x World Cup winner (overall)
5x World Championship medallist
4th Tokyo 2021; And 2nd in Paris

Biography:

Originally from the South of France, Sylvain André was born in Cavaillon and has been a member of the local club since 1998. A BMX enthusiast from the outset, he has remained loyal to his home club throughout his career. Quickly drawn to competition, he progressed from the local level to the international scene in his teens.

Since moving up to the elite category in 2011, Sylvain has devoted his life to sport and performance. This discipline has not only forged him as an athlete, but has also taught him unique life lessons that can't be found in any school.

Now aged 32, Sylvain is also the father of two children and lives with his partner, who fully supports him in his career. Reconciling his life as a top-level athlete with his role as a father is a challenge, but one he fully appreciates and embraces.

Quentin ANTOGNELLI

Three-time World and Two-Time European Medalist

ROWING

Biography:

Born in Monaco, he learned to row between Menton and Monaco. From an early age, he was drawn to rowing, finding immense pleasure in being on the water. As his training years progressed, between the ages of 14 and 18, he became more and more seriously involved in competition. In 2011, he began representing Monaco internationally, and hasn't stopped since. He has had the honor of being the Principality's rower at the last two Olympics.

Manon APITHY BRUNET

Olympic Champion

SABRE FENCING

Awards:

First French woman to win the gold medal in individual sabre at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games.
Bronze medallist in individual sabre at the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games (first Frenchwoman to achieve this feat).
Team silver medallist at the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games.
World team champion at the 2018 Wuxi World Championships.
European vice-champion in 2019.
World Cup No.1 in 2021-2022.
European champion in 2023.
Numerous podiums and victories in international competitions.

Biography:

Born on February 7, 1996 in Lyon, France, Manon Apithy-Brunet is a renowned French fencer. From an early age, she was introduced to a variety of sports by her parents, who were themselves passionate about sport. After practicing taekwondo and dance, she discovered fencing in 2004, at just 8 years of age, and quickly proved to be very talented.

In 2010, Manon joined the Cercle d'Escrime Orléanais "pôle espoir", and her performances earned her a place on the French cadet and junior teams. She then took part in her first world competitions, confirming her potential on the international scene.

At the age of 17, she joined the INSEP, while continuing her studies: she first obtained her scientific baccalaureate, followed by a degree in sciences and techniques of physical activities and sports, before changing direction to a BTS in business unit management. She then took an online course at EDHEC Business School to earn a Business Bachelor of Administration degree.

Manon Apithy-Brunet made her Olympic debut at the Rio Games in 2016, where she stood out for her fighting spirit. Two years later, she won her first world team title in Wuxi. At the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games, she won the individual bronze medal and a team silver medal, consolidating her position among the world's top female sabre fencers.

In 2021, she left INSEP to join Christian Bauer's academy, where she reached the pinnacle of her career by becoming world n°1 in 2021-2022 and winning the European championship title in 2023. However, she faces challenges including shoulder surgery in 2022 and back problems.

On the personal front, she has been married to fencer Boladé Apithy since October 23, 2021, forming an iconic couple in the fencing world.

Manon will realize her dream by winning the gold medal on July 29 at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, in the women's individual sabre competition, against her compatriot Sara Balzer.

Arnaud ASSOUMANI

Paralympic Champion

TRACK & FIELD

Awards:

Track record (able-bodied):
Bronze medal in the long jump at the 2010 French Indoor Championships (Paris-Bercy).

Para sport achievements:
6 Paralympic Games participations.

Paralympic Games :
Athens 2004: Bronze medal (long jump, 6.91 m).
Beijing 2008: Gold medal (long jump, 7.23 m, world record).
London 2012: Silver medal (long jump, 7.13 m) and silver medal (triple jump, 14.28 m).
Rio 2016: Bronze medal (long jump, 7.11 m).
Tokyo 2021: 8th place.
Paris 2024: 5th place.

World championships :
Assen 2006: Gold medal (long jump).
Christchurch 2011: Gold medal (long jump) and bronze medal (100 m).
Lyon 2013: Bronze medal (long jump).
London 2017: Silver medal (long jump).

European Championships :
Assen 2003: Gold medal (high jump, 4x100 m relay) and silver medal (long jump).
Espoo 2005: Silver medal (long jump).

Awards :
Chevalier de la Légion d'honneur (November 14, 2008)

Biography:

Arnaud Assoumani is a world-renowned French Paralympic athlete, notably for his participation in the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games, where he placed 5th in the long jump. Twice world long jump champion, gold medallist at the 2008 Beijing Paralympic Games, he broke the world long jump record. In the same year, he was named Chevalier de la Légion d'Honneur. He won bronze in the long jump at the 2010 French indoor championships (7.82 m), becoming the first French para-sport athlete to win a national medal with disabled athletes.
In addition to his sporting achievements, he has been an active ambassador for Paris 2024 since 2015 and speaks and consults on issues of diversity, inclusion, and performance optimization. Arnaud has collaborated with major organizations such as NASA, Ted, UNESCO, Change Now, EDF, PwC, and is also committed to social impact initiatives through his role as Committed Athlete and Social Entrepreneur.

Lisa BARBELIN

Olympic Medalist

ARCHERY

Awards:

Bronze medal at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games
World team vice champion 2023
3-time European champion (2021, 2022, 2024)
6-time World Cup medallist (2019, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024)

Biography:

Lisa Barbelin is 24 years old and has been practicing archery for 15 years.
A fresh bronze medallist at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, she has proved in many ways that anything is possible, for those who give themselves the means. Indeed, she is the very first French female archer to medal individually at an Olympic Games. This medal has motivated her to share her story and experience with others, and perhaps inspire other children to do the same.

Outside her sporting career, she is studying chemistry at Sorbonne University. The practice of women's sport and maternity in sport are subjects particularly close to her heart, and she would like to be able to change people's attitudes to these issues. Archery is one of the sports that can be prescribed in the aftermath of cancer to aid recovery, and she would like to be able to help women in her own way through the practice of her sport. She also thinks a lot about the idea of one day combining a career as a top-level sportswoman with a maternity project, something she has never done before.

Designing is one of her hobbies, including sewing and crochet. She loves combining different colors and textures to create a unique garment. She's also an avid reader; traveling through the stories of various writers gave her the urge, several years ago, to put her Olympic adventure down in writing. Who knows? Maybe one day...

This sport also enabled her to meet her life companion, Thomas Chirault, also a medalist at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games. They met at INSEP, where they've been training for many years. Returning from the Paris 2024 Games both medallists was a goal they half-dreamed about, but today they can proudly say they've achieved something extraordinary together.

Billal BENNAMA

Olympic Vice-Champion (-51kg)

BOXING

Awards:

190 Fights / 151 Wins
Less than 5 defeats over the last 3 years.
Silver medal at Paris 2024 Olympic Games
Silver medal at the World Championships in 2023
2x World bronze medals in 2019 and 2021
Gold medal at the European Games in 2023
European Champion 2022
Participation in the Tokyo Olympic Games 2021
Best career win: Galal Yafai in the 1/4 final of the World Championship. He went on to become Olympic Champion in Tokyo 2020.

Biography:

Billal Bennama, born on June 14, 1998 in Albi, grew up in Blagnac, on the outskirts of Toulouse.

Born into a family of boxers, he was raised in the French and Algerian traditions alongside his brothers and sisters.

Before devoting himself fully to boxing, Billal explored a variety of sports, including athletics, gymnastics, soccer and rugby. These experiences forged his steely mentality and developed the fighting spirit that sets him apart today.

He took up English boxing at the age of 8, having previously excelled in other disciplines. His coaches soon noticed that he was technically gifted and had a natural aptitude for the noble art.

Determined and pugnacious, Billal quickly climbed the ranks and joined the French amateur teams at an early age.

Over the years, Bennama has established himself as one of France's most promising hopefuls in the flyweight category (-52 kg). In 2019, he won a silver medal at the European Amateur Boxing Championships, then bronze at the World Championships in Yekaterinburg, results that confirmed his status as an international talent. His participation in the Tokyo Olympic Games in 2021 marks a milestone in his career. Although he didn't win a medal, his performance, particularly his victory over Algeria's Mohamed Flissi, reinforced his reputation as a warrior. His fighting style combines technique, speed and adaptability, enabling him to shine in the most demanding competitions.

Following the disappointment of his first Olympic Games, Billal went on to achieve near-perfect results, with fewer than 5 defeats over the next 3 years and several trophies: European Champion 2022, Gold Medal at the European Games 2023, Silver Medal at the World Championships 2023, Silver Medal at the European Championships 2024 (-54kg). These results boosted his confidence ahead of the Paris Games.

In 2024, Billal Bennama will be back even stronger at the Paris Olympic Games. Buoyed by the energy of the French public, he shows unfailing determination. Fight after fight, he embodies the warrior spirit, leaving no opportunity for his opponents. His resilience and hard work took him all the way to the Olympic podium, confirming his place among the world's top boxers. With this latest medal, Billal Bennama consolidates his status as a key figure in French boxing, and his future looks even brighter, both as an amateur and a professional.

Serge BETSEN

Former French Rugby Union Player

RUGBY

Awards:

Club career :

Biarritz Olympique (1992-2008):

French champion: 2002, 2005, 2006.
French championship finalist: 2006.
European Cup: Finalist in 2006.

London Wasps (2008-2011):
Player in the English league after his career in France.

International career with the French national team (1997-2007)

63 caps for the French national team.

World Cup:
1999 World Cupfinalist.
Participation in the 2003 and 2007 World Cups.
Best tackler at the 2003 World Cup.

Six Nations Tournament:
Grand Slam: 2002, 2004.
Six Nations Tournament winner: 1998, 2006, 2007.

Individual awards :
Oscar du Midi Olympique (2002).
Named Chevalier de la Légion d'Honneur (2004).

Foundation and post-rugby activities:
Creation of the Serge Betsen Academy: Foundation to help disadvantaged children in Cameroon through education and rugby.
Consultant and coach: After his playing career, Serge Betsen became a consultant for various media and a rugby coach.

Biography:

A former professional rugby player, Serge Betsen won 63 caps for the French national team, 172 for Biarritz Olympique and 79 for London Wasps. Having hung up his boots in 2012, Serge Betsen is now based in London, where he runs a consulting company, has founded a rugby coaching program for youngsters and has chaired his own charity in Cameroon for the past 15 years.
Serge Betsen's twenty years' experience of top-level sport has given him a career full of high points, such as building individual and collective successes, overcoming competition and confronting adversity. But he has also experienced many highs and lows: failures, injuries, questioning. These high points can be found in the life of any organization. The corporate world can draw inspiration from a sports team's moments of success and appropriate its keys to success and performance.
Serge Betsen offers different types of intervention (conferences, workshops, etc.) within companies, around themes in line with their values, context and needs.

Kilian BRON

Professional Mountain Biker / Film Director

ENDURO FREERIDE MOUTAIN BIKER

Awards:

3 time winner of the Mountain Of Hell
2 time 2nd position in the Megavalanche

Biography:

French mountain biking phenom Kilian Bron tempts fate on the regular as he skirts hair-raising ridges and induces acrophobia with his antics. Bron is a professional enduro/freeride mountain biker for the Intense Mavic Collective and acts as media manager for his own team and some partners. Bron spends his seasons focusing on media projects and enduro-downhill races. His current work includes the webseries "MISSION," which is focused on riding atypical spots all over the world. Completely disregarding the cost of minor mistakes in line choice, Bron builds tension as he navigates tight stairways and switchbacks, only allowing relief when he hits open terrain once again. He is the director and subject of Mission Dolomites (Mountainfilm 2019).

Aurélie CHABOUDEZ

Three-time French champion and international medalist in 400m hurdles

ATHLETICS

Awards:

Youth Olympic champion in the 400m hurdles in 2010
3-time French champion in the discipline and several international medals.
20 caps for the French national team.
Semi-finalist European Championships Berlin.
Semi-finalist World Championships Beijing.
Semi-finalist European Championships Amsterdam.

Biography:

400m hurdles specialist.
With the French national team since 2010.
Youth Olympic champion in the 400m hurdles in 2010
3-time French champion in the discipline and several international medals.
20 caps for the French national team.
Currently preparing for the Paris 2024 Olympic Games.
Master's degree in management of luxury and fashion companies.

Thomas CHIRAULT

Olympic Medalist

ARCHERY

Awards:

In 2024 :
Olympic team runner-up European team champion World Cup finalist

World vice-champion 2017
Gold medallist at the 2019 European Team Games
4-time European Champion: 2016, 2017, 2022, 2024
12 World Cup medals
French individual record-holder in all disciplines European team record

Biography:

Thomas Chirault, 27, is a professional archer and final-year materials engineering student at Polytech Sorbonne. Since childhood, archery has played a central role in his life, a sport that has not only enabled him to develop great technical precision, but also to make personal progress thanks to the values it conveys: discipline, perseverance, humility and excellence.

His sporting career has been marked by many important moments, but one of the most memorable is undoubtedly the Paris 2024 Olympic Games. This summer, he had the immense privilege of representing France in an exceptional setting, in front of his home crowd, and winning a team silver medal. A unique experience, full of emotion and achievement, crowning years of intensive training and teamwork.

Alongside his sporting career, he is studying engineering at Polytech Sorbonne, specializing in materials. Combining these two passions has taught him to manage his time efficiently, be disciplined and never give up when faced with a challenge. Whether in the competitive arena or in his studies, he always strives to excel, adopting a methodical approach and cultivating constant curiosity.

He also strives to share his passion with as many people as possible. For him, archery is more than a sport, it's a school of life. He likes to pass on his knowledge to young people, but also to people of all ages, with the aim of inspiring new passions. Beyond performance, he believes in the importance of sharing and transmitting the positive values of sport: "Believe in your dreams and give yourself the means to achieve them".

Sport has also given him the greatest gift of all: he met his partner, his fiancée, Lisa Barbelin, bronze medallist at Paris 2024. They met a few years ago in Paris at an international competition and have been together ever since. Coming home with two Olympic medals was the accomplishment he dreamed of most. Today, in a way, they can proudly say that they have made history together.

Cheick CISSÉ SALLAH

World Champion and Double Olympic Medalist

TAEKWONDO

Awards:

Olympic Champion 2016 Rio
Olympic Champion 2024 Paris
World champion 2023 Baku
World number 1 Heavyweight +87 kilos category
Best Male Athlete 2023 World Taekwondo Best African Sportsman 2023 African Sports Economics Awards World Champion 2023 Azerbaijan
Gold medal at Grand Prix Final 2023 Manchester Gold medal at Grand Prix de Paris 2023

Biography:

Cheick Cissé Sallah is a monument of Ivorian sport, recognized for his exploits on the international scene. Double Olympic medalist Reigning world champion and holder of the first gold medal at the Olympic Games for Côte d'Ivoire, he marked the history of his country and inspired generations of young athletes. Born in Bouaké and raised in rigor and discipline, Cheick overcame many obstacles to reach the heights of his sport, Taekwondo.

Charmaine CROOKS

TRACK & FIELD

Biography:

Although she began running at the age of 16, Charmaine Crooks had impressive longevity and made a significant impact on Canadian athletics, rivaled by few. She first gained international recognition at the 1980 Pan American Junior Championships, where she won the 400 metres event. She was selected to represent Canada at the 1980 Summer Olympics, but stayed home after Canada joined the boycott of the Games. The following year, she enrolled at the University of Texas, El Paso on an athletic scholarship, and by 1984, she had earned six All-American honors and a degree in psychology.

During this time, Crooks also won the 4x100 metre relay at the 1982 Commonwealth Games alongside Angella Taylor-Issajenko, Molly Killingbeck, and Jill Richardson-Briscoe. She earned silver in the 4x400 m relay at the 1983 Summer Universiade and gold and silver in the 400 m and 4x400 m relay at the 1983 Pan American Games. After graduation, she competed at the 1984 Summer Olympics, where she won a silver medal in the 4x400 m relay with Killingbeck, Richardson, Marita Payne Wiggins, and Dana Wright, and finished seventh in the 400 m.

Crooks was far from retirement after her Olympic success. Although she competed in three more Olympic Games (1988 to 1996), her closest shot at the podium came in the 4x400 m relay in 1992, where the Canadians missed bronze by less than a second. However, she earned three more Commonwealth Games medals: gold in the 4x400 m relay in 1986, and silver in the 800 m and bronze in the 4x400 m relay in 1994. She also secured a silver medal in the 4x400 m relay at the 1987 Pan American Games.

In 1996, Crooks was selected as Canada's flagbearer for the opening ceremony of the Atlanta Olympic Games. Following her retirement, she held several administrative roles in sports, including serving on the International Olympic Committee. She also worked as a television presenter and received the IOC Women in Sport Trophy in 2006. Crooks has been inducted into the British Columbia Sports Hall of Fame (2005), the University of Texas, El Paso Sports Hall of Fame (2006), and the Canadian Athletics Hall of Fame (2012).

Joana DE FREITAS

GYMNASTICS

Biography:

Joana de Freitas is a talented gymnast from Monaco, born on July 11, 2006. She has steadily climbed the ranks of French gymnastics, showcasing exceptional talent from a young age. In 2023, Joana achieved a major milestone by becoming the French National Champion in the National A category at just 17 years old. That same year, she also competed in World Cup events in Cottbus, Baku, and Paris, and participated in the European Championships in Antalya.

Her journey began in 2016 when she placed 7th in the French National Championships. She continued to improve, finishing 5th in 2017 and earning the title of vice-champion in 2018. In 2019, she secured 3rd place in the national competition. In 2022, Joana made her international debut as a representative of Monaco, finishing 4th in the French Nationals and competing in the European Championships in Munich.

Joana's dedication and continuous progress make her a rising star in the world of gymnastics, with a bright future ahead.

Coralie DUCHER

European Vice Champion

FOOTBALL

Awards:

Triple French Champion (OL)
Vice champion of Europe

Biography:

French soccer player, born on September 11, 1986 in Roanne (Loire). At the age of 17, she was called to the French U17 team to participate in the European Championship in Sweden and then in the European Youth Olympic Festival in Paris where her team won the bronze medal.

After a season in Division 3, she joined the professional Olympique Lyonnais team the following season, playing her first game in 2004. She was selected for the French national team with the U19s and played in the final of the European Championship in 2005 in Hungary, then in the U20 World Cup in Russia.

She returned to the women's D1 during the 2008/2009 season by winning the French challenge, her first title, then will be added 3 Champion titles and a title of vice-champion of Europe in 2010.
In 2010 she joined FC Bale in Switzerland and then signed in 2011 with Fortuna Hjorring in Denmark.

She then enriches her track record with a title of vice-champion of the Elite Divisioner (Danish Championship) and vice-champion of the SYDBANK KVINDEPOKALEN (the Danish Cup).

After a year of rehabilitation, following post-operation complications, she decided to stop her career and focus on her health. To this day, she continues to live her passion as a consultant on OL Play and occasionally on Eurosport.

Lucas FAUCHÉ

Professional Rower

ROWING

Biography:

Lucas Fauché is a talented rower making a name for himself in the French rowing world. He discovered his passion for rowing in 2017 at the Société Nautique de Monaco, where he developed both his skills and ambition. After earning his baccalaureate at Lycée Albert 1er in Monaco, he joined the National Training Center of the French Rowing Federation at the Pôle France and Espoir in Lyon to pursue his dream of excellence in both sport and academics. Alongside his intensive training, he is studying Sports Science (STAPS) at the University of Lyon 1 in Villeurbanne.

From the outset of his competitive journey, Lucas has accumulated prestigious titles and podium finishes. In 2019, he became the French champion in the mixed quadruple sculls (minime), marking the beginning of an impressive string of performances. The following year, in 2020, he claimed the French championship title again, this time in the men's quadruple sculls. In 2021, he secured the title of vice-champion of France in the same category.

In 2022, Lucas continued to excel, placing third in the men's eight and third in the men's pair at the national level. He also earned a third-place finish in the men's eight at the European Championships and ranked sixth in the men's eight at the World Championships. In 2023, he achieved outstanding success as the vice world champion in the men's double sculls at the Beach Rowing World Championships. In 2024, he reached a new milestone by taking third place at the World Championships in the men's coxed four.

With an enduring and resilient spirit, Lucas Fauché stands out as a highly motivated athlete, committed to pushing himself to new heights while representing his club and the French Rowing Federation with honor.

Nicolas FLEURY

Professional Athlete and Lecturer, World Champion

MOUTAIN BIKE TRIAL

Awards:

1x World Champion
2015: World Champion with the French Team, Andorra

2x French Champion
2011: French Champion (youth category)
2015: French Champion

3rd Place at the Junior European Championships
2015: Bronze medal, Junior European Championships

Engineering Graduate
2021: Engineering degree from École Nationale des Arts et Métiers, Paris

Biography:

Nicolas Fleury, born in 1997 in Besançon, in the east of France, is an athlete with a passion for extreme sports, particularly trial biking. After trying various sports from a young age, he discovered trial biking at the age of 8, a highly demanding and impressive discipline where the aim is to overcome obstacles on a bike without touching the ground with your feet.

In 2011, at just 14 years old, Nicolas won his first French Championship title in the youth category, marking a pivotal moment in his career. He then decided to dedicate himself fully to trial biking, setting aside other sports, and signed his first sponsorship contracts with specialised brands.

His commitment quickly paid off: in 2015, he secured his second national title and achieved a remarkable third place at the Junior European Championships. The year culminated in a spectacular achievement, as he was crowned World Champion with the French team in Andorra, propelling him onto the international stage.

Alongside his sporting career, Nicolas pursued engineering studies at the prestigious École Nationale des Arts et Métiers in Paris. In 2021, he successfully graduated, combining academic excellence with athletic performance.

Faced with this rich and promising journey, Nicolas chose to become a professional athlete. He collaborates closely with his sponsors, contributing to the design and promotion of the bikes and accessories he uses daily. Additionally, he has expanded his expertise into the fields of fashion and audiovisual production, areas that particularly interest him.

Always eager for new challenges, Nicolas broadened his scope by creating unique bike shows and conferences. In August 2024, he crowned his journey by participating in the Paris Olympic Games as an ambassador for trial biking, his non-Olympic discipline of choice.

Mathieu FORGET

Jury Member

Biography:

Mathieu Forget, also known as Forgetmat, is an artist in motion. Originally from Paris, he is a dancer, photographer, and artistic director, embodying a new vision of dance, capturing its essence in his visual work. A former tennis player, Mathieu Forget aims to promote freedom of expression, self-improvement, and challenges our perception of the world. His art is about capturing a fleeting moment of his levitating movement in photographs.
Also known as the "Flying Man," thanks to his photos and videos, this multidisciplinary artist defies the laws of physics and blends various styles. He shares his creations on social media, democratizing art with his globally accessible gallery. Passionate about architecture, lines, and colors, Mathieu Forget highlights the world around him by creating dizzying and poetic concepts.
After numerous collaborations with artists, athletes, and international brands, this multidisciplinary artist continues to explore new creative universes. In anticipation of the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, Mathieu Forget collaborates with many French athletes and makes sport fly.

Joan-Benjamin GABA

Olympic Champion

JUDO

Awards:

Olympic Champion in team event 2024
Olympic Silver Medalist 2024
Bronze Medalist at the European Championships 2024
4-time World Team Silver Medalist 2021-2022-2023-2024
Under-23 European Silver Medalist 2022

Marie-Charlotte GASTAUD

Olympic Athlete

TRACK AND FIELD

Awards:

Qualified for the Paris 2024 Olympic Games in the 100m
National Record holder in the 200m, 400m, and 400m hurdles
4th place at the 2023 Games of the Small States of Europe in the 400m hurdles
Selections:
5x European Championships
2x World Championships
1x Mediterranean Games

Biography:

Born on November 30, 1999, Marie-Charlotte Gastaud is a Monegasque athlete specializing in the 400m hurdles. Since her debut at Stade Louis II at the age of 7, her love for the sport has steadily grown. Enrolled in an athletics school by her parents, she initially focused on sprint events, particularly the 100m and 200m.

After a period of stagnation in her performances, Marie-Charlotte decided to switch to the 400m, a distance that allowed her to showcase her graceful stride over a longer course. For her, this transition was a breath of fresh air and a new challenge. The true turning point in her career came when she discovered the 400m hurdles, inspired by her brother, who had excelled in this discipline. Captivated by the challenge and the unique rhythm of the race, she decided to fully dedicate herself to hurdling.

In 2023, Marie-Charlotte made a crucial decision by joining a specialized training group at Nice Côte d'Azur Athlétisme, where she trained alongside national and international athletes. This new chapter marked the beginning of significant progress. With determination and high-quality coaching, she set several national records, notably in the 200m and 400m hurdles. She also holds the national record for the 400m.

In 2024, the year of the Olympic Games, Marie-Charlotte took on an ambitious challenge, aiming for universal qualification in the 100m. This return to her sprinting roots proved successful, as she competed on the track at the Stade de France, proudly representing Monaco's colors. This marked a major milestone in her sporting career. Marie-Charlotte is a dedicated athlete, whose seriousness and commitment have allowed her to overcome challenges and achieve her goals.

Marlène HARNOIS NIDECKER

Olympic medalist

TAEKWONDO

Awards:

-World Champion;
-Twice European Champion.

Biography:

Champion for Peace and Taekwondo Olympic medalist, Marlene Harnois is one of those people who truly have a positive impact in the world. She was elevated to the rank of Knight of the National Order of Merit by the President of France and she is representing Monaco's Peace and Sport International Organisation, placed under the High Patronage of H.S.H. Prince Albert II of Monaco.

Originally born in Montreal, Canada, Marlene Harnois, earned an MBA Degree with honours from the International University of Monaco. She followed an incredible journey that led her to the Principality of Monaco. Hers is an inspiring path filled with spectacular sporting and philanthropist achievements.

As a Champion for Peace, she is committed to promote the positive values of sport and contribute to development and peace across the globe, in areas affected by poverty and social instability. Marlene is also two-times European Champion, World University Champion, a World Taekwondo Championship medalist and has reached the world number one ranking.

Driven by the desire to give back to society and inspire youth in the realization of their dreams, in 2014, she founded an NGO in Abidjan to contribute to the development of sport and education in West Africa. She then mentored two young taekwondo prodigies on their Olympic journey and highly contributed to the historical victories of Ivory Coast at the 2016 Rio Summer Olympics, when Cheick Cissé won the first Olympic gold medal and Ruth Gbagbi became the first women Olympic medalist. Together, they have since inaugurated social libraries to promote education and support literacy class, in addition to leading field actions to further develop sport across the country.

Following this success, she realized the positive impact sport could have on an entire nation by uniting its populations, inspiring younger generations and achieving sustainable goals. Therefore, she launched, in 2017, the Caravan for Peace in partnership with Peace and Sport, to support local sustainable initiatives in emerging countries, such as inaugurating water fountains near sport fields.

In 2018, during the celebration of the International Day for Philosophy at the UNESCO, she was announced as the Ambassador of the International center for youth philosophy "PhiloJeunes".

She is also a member of the Canadian Olympic Committee, the European Taekwondo Union, and board member of the French Olympian Association.

Tamara HORACEK

Olympic Vice-Champion

HANDBALL

Awards:

French Team :
2024: Olympic runner-up
2023: World Champion
2021: World Championship silver medal
2016: Olympic vice-champion, Rio
2016: Bronze medal, European Championship

Club:
4 x French Champion (2014, 2016, 2017, 2022)
4 x French Cup winner (2015, 2016, 2017, 2022)
European League (Champions League) finalist (2021)

Biography:

Tamara Horacek is a professional handballer who plays centre-half and left-back. As a child, she followed her mother's illustrious international career, playing in Hungary, Slovenia and even Austria, before settling permanently in Metz, France, when she was just 8 years old. Bitten by the handball bug, she joined the Metz training center and turned professional at just 17. It wasn't long before her highly versatile game caught the eye of Les Bleues coach Oliver Krumbholz. She joined the French A team in 2016, aged just 21, and went on to become Olympic vice-champion that same year, then World vice-champion in 2021.
Jovial and outgoing by nature, Tamara conceals an iron will that makes her just as endearing off the pitch. Passionate about nutrition and psychology, she also enjoys exploring other cultures. Now considered one of handball's top players, she continues to shine on the international scene.

Florian JOUANNY

Paralympic Champion

PARACYCLING

Biography:

Born in Échirolles on February 2, 1992, Florian is a native of the magnificent Oisans region, nestled in the heart of the French Alps.

An avid sportsman, he has practiced several disciplines from an early age, including skiing, cycling and French boxing. He is also a fervent extreme skier, with a predilection for freeride and freestyle.

Every winter, he devoted himself fully to his passions. But all that changed on April 2, 2011, when a heavy fall on skis left him a C6-C7 quadriplegic.

Following this ordeal, long months of rehabilitation were necessary, oscillating between effort, learning and moments of resilience. It was with a fighting spirit that he discovered the world of handisport, turning to paracycling and paratriathlon.

Today, he proudly holds the title of triple medallist at the Tokyo 2020 Games and double world champion in CLM and CEL, category H2. Alongside these achievements, he has crossed the finish line of three IRONMAN races. At the latest Paris 2024 Paralympic Games, Florian added two Paralympic champion titles and a bronze medal to his collection.

Nikola KARABATIC

Multiple Olympic, World and European Champion

HANDBALL

Awards:

61 Club titles including 3x Champions League, 22 x National Champion in 23 professional seasons
11 titles with the French national team, including 3x Olympic Champion and 1 silver medal, 4x World Champion, 4x European Champion for a total of 17 international medals
3 x World's Best Player
6 Olympic Games participations: 2004/2008/2012/2016/2021/2024
L'Equipe newspaper's Champion of Champions 2011
Unanimously recognized as the G.O.A.T. of Handball (Greatest Of All Times)

Biography:

Born on 11/04/1984 in Nis (Serbia), Nikola arrived in France in 1988 with his mother to join his father Branko at the Club de La Robertsau in Alsace, before moving to Frontignan in the Occitanie region at the age of 6.
He joined Montpellier's training center in 2001 and won the 1st Champions League for a French club in 2003.
He has played for some of the world's top clubs: Montpellier HB, THW Kiel, FC Barcelona and Paris Saint Germain HB.
French international 364 caps, 1,303 goals
He is the most successful player in the history of world handball (11 titles).

Nantenin KEITA

Awards:

Several world and European champion titles. 4 Paralympic medals including 1 gold over 400 meters in Rio finalist at Paris 2024.

She was heavily involved in the Paris 2024 bid and colorization, notably serving as flag bearer for the French Paralympic delegation.

Biography:

Originally from Mali, Nantenin KEITA was born with albinism and is visually impaired as a result. She arrived in France at the age of 2 to escape the suffering and mistreatment that albino children can face in Africa.

Growing up with a disability and being different often leads to mistrust from others. Nantenin quickly realized that she would have to make extra efforts to achieve the life she wanted. It was at school that she discovered what would become the key to embracing her disability: sports.

Through sports, her self-esteem grew, and she realized she was capable of accomplishing great things and living a life beyond the ordinary.

Today, Nantenin KEITA is a proud albino woman and a top-level athlete, committed to promoting a more inclusive society, proud of her differences.

Stéphane LE GOFF

Jury Member

Biography:

Stephane Le Goff has a postgraduate degree in political science and has a passion for sports. He was a Senior Reporter for Canal + for over 30 years, from 1989 to 2018. An enthusiastic sportsman, he has made it his mission to highlight and counteract the preconceived ideas regarding multiple sports disciplines. He has made about fifty documentaries, some of which have received awards. Stéphane le Goff has notably received two Micro D'or for the best documentary. His film "Anger within", on the life of Jonah Lomu, the All Blacks' iconic player, was used by World Rugby to promote rugby around the world. He was also an award winner at the 2019 Monaco SPORTEL.

A respected reporter, he has covered a dozen Olympic Games, but also a dozen World Cups in many sports (rugby, football, skiing...), the Copa America and the US Open. Stephane Le Goff is now a volunteer on the boards of several sports associations.

Elise MARC

European and World Champion

PARATRIATHLON

Awards:

5-time Paracycling World and European Champion
5-time European Paratriathlon Champion
Paracycling world vice-champion
Participated in the Rio 2016 Paralympic Games (5th place) and the Tokyo 2021 Games in paracycling.
Participation in the Paris 2024 Olympic Games

Biography:

Sporting Career:
Élise discovered paratriathlon in 2012 after searching for a para-triathlon club. In 2014, she joined the French national team. Previously a recreational athlete (horse riding, trekking, judo, skiing, kayaking, volleyball, and circus arts), she made her debut in paratriathlon and progressed rapidly.
She participated in the Rio 2016 Paralympic Games, where she finished 5th. As her discipline was not represented at the 2021 Tokyo Games, she competed in paracycling instead.
To date, she is a multiple world and European champion in paratriathlon and also a vice-world champion in paracycling.
She regularly trains at the CREPS in Boulouris and is a member of the "Vals du Dauphiné Olympic" club.

Commitments and Hobbies:
Other commitments: Élise Marc is also passionate about the mountains and practices agility with her dog. She played the violin for 10 years. Her inspirations include Grégory Lemarchal and figure skater Yannick Ponsero.

Florence MASNADA

Triple Olympic Medalist and World Champion

ALPINE SKIING

Awards:

Triple bronze medallist at the Olympic Games and World Championships (92/98/99) in Alpine skiing

Biography:

A sportswoman before being a skier, Florence Masnada has always chosen an unusual route. She is organised when it comes to combining high-level sport with her studies, energetic and willing at the start of a sporting competition, generous when sharing with sick children from her "étoiles des neiges" association and passionate when consulting for companies.
Triple an Olympic medallist, she is also the only Frenchwoman to have won the combined world cup in 1991.
Today, she remains close to the world of skiing as a consultant for Eurosport and creator of the podcast "Belle trace", where she meets the greatest French champions. She is also committed to the preservation of the planet with the Waterfamily association.

Marco MATERAZZI

Biography:

The official ambassador of Blockchain Sports, mentor of the reality show "O Grande Jogo", which helps Brazilian children fulfill their football dreams. World champion and Five-time Italian Champion, Champions League Winner 2009/2010.

Alexis NICOLAS

Multiple Savate/French boxing world champion and two-time MTGP world champion

BOXING

Biography:

At just 26 years of age, Alexis Nicolas is a rising star on the world boxing scene. This child of Paris's 20th arrondissement first donned the gloves to keep up with his band of pals. He found it much more than a solid outlet, and devoted himself assiduously to the sport. It has to be said that the cost to his mother of his sporting license was not insignificant. And yet, at the time, she didn't hesitate to support him. For that, and for the education she gave him, he owes her an infinite debt of gratitude.
Today, he's come a long way in a very short time, but he's still a long way from the goal he set himself: to be the best boxer of his generation.
He is now the undisputed world number one in savate boxe française in the under 77 kg class.
In search of new goals, but also of recognition and media coverage, he then decided to turn to kick boxing to compete against the world's best boxers in this new discipline.
In 2023, he became the champion of one of Europe's largest organizations: the "Muaythai Grand Prix".
He overcame complicated trials and many disappointments, such as a cruciate ligament rupture, followed by two long years on Covid. But his determination knows no bounds: he is determined to achieve his goals.
Alexis quickly demonstrated outstanding skills for his sport. He has won almost everything in youth competitions: Cadet and Junior World Champion. He even set his sights on a Senior World Champion belt when he was just 20. A knee injury held him back for a while, but he resumed his career - 1 year later - with a little extra determination. In 2023, he joined the prestigious Asian fighting league: the One Championship. His talent was obvious to many observers. From there, he went on to conquer the world belt in just 2 fights... a historic achievement that catapulted him into the elite ranks of world fist-boxing. His aim now is to stay there for good.

Stephen PAREZ-EDO

Olympic 7s Rugby Champion

RUGBY

Awards:

2024 Olympic Champion Paris
2024 World Champion
2024 2nd World Cup Hong Kong
2024 World Cup Champion United States
2023 3rd World Cup France
2016 European Champion
2014 European Champion

Biography:

Stephen Parez-Edo is a French international rugby player who plays as a scrum-half. Over the past 10 years, he has become one of the most recognizable faces of the French 7s. A graduate of the Lycée Lakanal de Sceaux sports-study program, he has been a member of the Paris Université Club since he was a teenager. He joined the Pôle Fédéral de Marcoussis in 2012 and was selected for the French U20 squad the following year. The 7s selection and its coach Frédéric Pomarel also coveted him. He completed a conclusive test against Tonga in 2013, and has remained in the game ever since.

With the 7 tricolore, Stephen has twice won the Grand Prix Series and qualified for the 2016 Rio Olympics. He also broke the 100-trial barrier, marking an important step in the history of his sport. With a title and several encouraging podium finishes in recent years, he has great ambitions for the Paris 2024 Games.

Stephen is not just an oval ball aesthete. Apart from rugby, his passions extend to architecture and design. He has also just obtained his culinary diplomas, a qualification that could consolidate his ambitious post-career plans.

Marie PATOUILLET

Double Olympic Medalist and World Champion

PARACYCLING

Awards:

2019 :
World Championship (Netherlands): bronze medal 500m DA
French Elite Championship: bronze medal 500m DA
French Handisport Championship: 2 titles of French champion (500m and individual pursuit)

2020 :
World Championship (Canada): 2nd title of vice world champion (500m DA and omnium)

2021:
Paralympic Games Tokyo 2021: 2 bronze medals (pursuit
individual and road race) 4th place in the 500m DA
French Handisport Championship: 2 titles of Champion of France (500m DA and Individual Pursuit)

2022 :
World champion on the road +2 titles of French champion (pursuit & Omnium) + WR on 200 m on track + a title for Champion of France on the road

Biography:

Marie has had an atypical career, without any false notes, in reference to her 12 years of piano lessons at the Conservatory. Today, a medical doctor and a figure in French para-cycling, she was a double medalist in Tokyo on the track, three years after she began the discipline, trained by Grégory Baugé.

It was a birth defect in her left foot and leg, which prevented her from running, that pushed her towards cycling. She has progressed steadily, won several national titles on the track and road, and holds the world record in the 200m. She has just won a rainbow jersey by becoming world champion on the road in August 2022!

The ultimate goal is known to all: Paris 2024!

Estelle PERROSSIER

European Champion in 4x400m

ATHLETICS

Awards:

Athletic European Champion (400 m)

Biography:

Estelle Perrossier, trained with a volunteer coach at the Lyon Athletics Club located in the southern suburbs of Lyon. Her specialty is the 400m and the 4x400m relay. Her personal best on the lap is 52 seconds 18. She spent 10 years in the France A athletics team within the French athletics federation and listed Elites on high-level sports ministerial lists. She has had 13 selections in the France A team, being several times a European medalist, world finalist and Olympian.

In 2010, at the age of 20 years old, she gets noticed by her athletics teacher at the faculty of sports, where she pursued her master's degree in Re-athletics, physical and mental preparation. She owes a part of her career to her, who oriented her towards her historical coach Franck Matamba. In 2013, 3 years after her debut, she obtained her first selection for the France A team at the French championships. Team Europe in England at Gateshead. In 2014, she made selections for the European Team Championships in Germany, the World Relay Championships (she ran for the first time with Muriel Hurtis). She finished her season with the title of European Champion in the 4x400m relay in Zurich, Switzerland 4 years after my debut.
In 2015, she finished finalist at the World Championships in Beijing (Pekin) in the PRC. In 2016, she is qualified for the Olympics, but sadly could not participate due to her mother's passing during the games.

In 2017, she is selected for the European Indoor Championships in Belgrade. She moved onto the World Relay Championships in the Bahamas, where she qualified the relay for the World Championships in London at the Queen Elizabeth Stadium, where she finished 4th. In 2018, she is on the European Podium again, finishing Vice-Champion of Europe. In 2019, she is qualified for the world relay championships in Yokohama in Japan for the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, which did not take place due to the health crisis. She finished her season being 3rd at the European Team Championships in Poland.

In 2021, at 31 years of age, after a 10-year career, she decided to end her career, to follow a new project.

Elodie RAVERA-SCARAMOZZINO

Professional Rower

ROWING

Awards:

2024: 5th at the Paris Olympics in double sculls 3rd at the World Cup in double sculls French Champion in single sculls
2023: Vice World Champion and European Champion in Beach Rowing Sprints (solo) 3rd at the French Championships in coxless pair French Champion in quadruple sculls
2021: 8th at the Tokyo Olympics in double sculls Double French Champion in quadruple sculls and coxless four
2019: 5th at the World Championships in double sculls and qualified for the Tokyo Olympics French Champion in single sculls
2018: European Champion in double sculls 3rd at the French Championships in single sculls
2016: World Champion in coastal rowing (coxed four) 5th at the Rio Olympics 3rd at the World Cup French Vice Champion in single sculls
2015: Qualified for the Rio 2016 Olympics 8th at the World Championships (senior double sculls) French Vice Champion in single sculls

Biography:

Elodie Ravera-Scaramozzino, 29, is from Nice. A keen sportswoman since childhood, she discovered rowing thanks to her father, a former rower. After her first French championships in 2008, she joined the French junior team at the age of 15, winning two world bronze medals. She then left to study and row at Ohio State University, where her team was crowned NCAA university champions in the coxed eight. Back in France, she devoted herself to preparing for the Rio Olympics, where she finished 5th in 2016.

After a few ups and downs, Elodie and her team-mate won the title of European champions in 2018, while continuing her studies, obtaining a DUT and then a Masters in Market Finance at EDHEC. A finalist at the Tokyo Olympics in 2021, she then turned her attention to Beach Rowing Sprints, winning European and world titles. In 2023, she returned to INSEP to prepare for the Paris Olympics, where she and her new team-mate finished 5th in the all-round doubles.

Dominique ROCHETEAU

Former International Soccer Player and Sports Manager

SOCCER

Biography:

French international footballer Dominique Rocheteau has worn the blue jersey on forty-nine occasions. He won the Euro in 1984, scored at least one goal in three different World Cups and reached two semi-finals (1982, 1986). He currently runs the "Foot pour tous" courses he organizes every year in Charente-Maritime. Dominique Rocheteau has always held a special place in the world of professional soccer. An emblematic player for Saint-Etienne in the 1970s, and a striker for Paris Saint-Germain (100 goals) and Toulouse, he also took part in three World Cups with the French national team.

Cyprien SARRAZIN

Champion

ALPINE SKIING

Awards:

8 podiums including 5 victories in the FIS Alpine Ski World Cup
• December 2016: Winner of the giant slalom in Alta Badia (Italy)
• December 2023: Winner of the downhill in Bormio (Italy)
• January 2024: Winner of the super-G in Wengen (Switzerland) and winner of both downhills in Kitzbühel (Austria)

Member of the French World Cup team since 2017

Biography:

Cyprien Sarrazin, trained in the Hautes-Alpes at SuperDévoluy and La Joue du Loup, is a french alpine skier with a unique career.
He made his World Cup beginnings in the technical disciplines of alpine skiing, notably in giant slalom, earning his first victory to everyone's surprise in just his 7th World Cup race, in Alta Badia, Italy, in December 2016.
After several injuries, he gradually shifted his career toward speed disciplines (super- G and downhill), starting in 2021.
This change of direction has proven successful.
During the 2023/2024 winter season, he made a breakthrough with 6 podiums, including 4 victories.
In December 2023, he won the prestigious downhill in Bormio (Italy), becoming the first Frenchman to triumph there since Luc Alphand in 1996.
In Wengen (Switzerland), in early January 2024, he confirmed his form and versatility by winning the super-G.
On February 19 and 20, 2024, he achieved his greatest success.
Cyprien Sarrazin won both downhill races on the legendary Streif in Kitzbühel (Austria), the world temple of skiing.
29 years after Luc Alphand's double victory (1995), he even had the luxury of finishing nearly a second (0.91) ahead of his closest competitor, Marco Odermatt (1), in the second race.
Cyprien Sarrazin, alpine skiing
He became the eighth athlete in the history of alpine skiing and the second Frenchman to accomplish this double victory.
(1) Marco Odermatt is the 2022 Olympic giant slalom champion, the 2023 World Champion in giant slalom and downhill, and has won the overall Alpine Skiing World Cup standings three times, in 2022, 2023, and 2024.

Sarah STEYAERT

Olympic Medalist

SAILING

Awards:

In 49er FX
Bronze medallist Olympic Games Paris 2024
European vice-champion 2024
6th Olympic Games Rio 2016
3rd World Championship 2013

In Laser Radial
16th London 2012 Olympic Games
European vice-champion in 2009
5th at Beijing 2008 Olympic Games
World Champion in 2008
European vice-champion in 2007
European champion in 2005

Biography:

Born on November 27, 1986, Sarah lived in Africa until the age of 4. During a year on a sailboat, she made her first tacks, accompanied by her brother and parents. Back in France, she wanted to follow her older brother, who had signed up for a sailing course. Despite this painful experience alone on her optimist, Sarah decided to sign up for year-round sailing. She learned to tame her fears, to familiarize herself a little more with the marine environment and to feel the freedom of being on the water.
At the age of 13, she won her first podium at a French championship. At 17, she became World Youth Champion, at 18 European Senior Champion and at 21 World Senior Champion. This title enabled her to take part in her first Olympic Games (Beijing 2008), where she finished 5th in the laser radial. After this disappointment, she remobilized to prepare for London 2012 by pursuing a dual academic and sporting career. She passed her competitive examination to become a school teacher in 2011, but underperformed at the 2012 Games, finishing 16th.
She then decided to switch to the 49er FX in 2013 as a partner. Right from the start, she finished 3rd at the World Championships in Marseille in 2013. She then qualified for the 2016 Rio Games, where she finished 6th.
That's when Charline Picon (double Olympic medallist in windsurfing) came to bring her out of retirement. Sarah, who had never won an Olympic medal before, still had the desire to live her dream!
The duo cling on in the face of difficulties, and work hard to win that dream medal in Paris, France, surrounded by their families and loved ones! What emotions!

Marie TABARLY

Sailor, Lecturer

SAILING

Awards:

Captain of Pen-Duick VI
Numerous ocean voyages, from Patagonia to Greenland.
Real-time winner (line honors) of the Ocean Globe Race 2023/24
Winner British Isles Tour 2022
Winner Drheam Cup coupe de France de course au large 2022
Transat Jacques Vabre 2021, co-skipper of Louis Duc, IMOCA Kostum Lantana Paysage. 14th Imoca, 1st Newbie, 2nd daggerboard boat, 1st without support structure.
Member of Alexia Barrier's women's crew for the Jules Verne Trophy 2025 (The Famous Project).
5 X winner of the International 15MJI Class Championship 2011, 2013, 2014, 2016 and 2017!
Winner Giraglia Offshore Race 2016!
Winner Voiles de St Tropez, Régates Royales de Cannes, Monaco Classic Week, Imperia, ...
Crewmember Maxi Trimaran Geronimo,
Olivier de Kersauson, Round-the-world preparation.
Preparer / Sailor 60' ORMA! Trimaran Banque Populaire.
Single-handed and double-handed Figaro II Roxy.
Transatlantic races.

Biography:

Half buccaneer at the helm of Pen-Duick VI in the service of the environmental cause, half Amazon
when she whispers in the horses' ear, the 40-year-old woman shows equal determination on land
and at sea.
Since childhood, she's been cut out to swallow up the miles, forging her experience on Pen-Duick
or more modern racing boats. Marie sails in different maritime universes, both passionate about
classic yachts, and sailing on cutting-edge trimarans such as the Mod70.
A special bond has developed between her and Pen-Duick VI, and it's on board that she loves to sail
the world.
Now, thanks to Pen-Duick VI, she can put her dream under sail, with her Elemen'Terre Project as
her bittersweet. The latest addition to the Pen-Duick dynasty flies the flag for environmental urgen-
cy and humanist values. In September 2023, Pen-Duick VI will line up at the starting line of the
Ocean Globe Race, a crewed round-the-world race with stopovers, under the same conditions as the
Whitbread 1973, the first round-the-world race and forerunner of the Ocean Race. During the eight-
month race, Marie and her crew will sail without satellites, i.e. without GPS and without receiving
GRIB-type weather files, and it is as a winner that Pen-Duick VI will cross the finish line in April
2024.
Rigorous and idealistic, Marie steers her boat according to her intuition.
Sailor, artist, accomplished sportswoman, the practice of numerous activities close to Nature have
developed in her a great environmental awareness and a love of what surrounds her.
A free-spirited, modern woman, tradition and the history of the ancients have cradled her since
childhood.

Anaïs VINCENT

Double World Championship Bronze Medalist

PARACYCLING

Awards:

World bronze medallist in the road race 2024 and 2023
World time trial bronze medallist 2024 and 2023
European relay champion 2023
Participation in the Paris-2024 Paralympic Games

Biography:

Anaïs Vincent is a rising athlete in the world of paracycling. In March 2022, the Drôme native, a student of sports science (STAPS), was involved in a mountain accident that left her paraplegic. Passionate about nature and driven by a love of freedom, she quickly sought an outlet for her energy and began handcycling.
Close to Paralympic champion Florian Jouanny, she progressed rapidly alongside him and won two bronze medals (road race and time trial) at her first participation in the World Championships in 2023. These performances earned her a spot at the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games, just two years after taking up the sport. She finished 5th in both the road race and the time trial.
Shortly after, she took her revenge by once again claiming two bronze medals at the World Championships in Zurich at the end of September.
At 24, now living in Bourg d'Oisans at the foot of the 21 switchbacks of Alpe d'Huez, she is already setting her sights on the 2028 Los Angeles Paralympic Games, determined to stand atop the podium.

Antoine ZEGHDAR

Olympic 7s Rugby Champion

RUGBY

Awards:

XV RUGBY
2016: Champion of France -16 years
2017: Champion of France -18 years
2017: European Champion -18 years
2019: French Espoir Champion
2019: World Champion -20 years
2022: French Top 14 Vice-Champion

FRENCH 7s RUGBY TEAM
2019: Silver medal at World Seven series in Vancouver, Hamilton, Hong-Kong, bronze medal Cape Town
2023: Bronze medal at the World Seven Series in Hong Kong
2024: Bronze medal, World Seven Series Vancouver, Gold medal Los Angeles, Silver medal
in Hong Kong
Olympic Rugby 7s Champion at "Paris 2024".

Biography:

Born on May 22, 1999 in Monaco, Antoine Zeghdar is a French XV rugby player playing center and wing for Castres Olympique (Top 14 Club) he is also a member of the French rugby 7s team, and Olympic champion at "Paris 2024".
In 2012, Antoine began playing rugby with the Rugby Club de Monaco and became a member of the Fédération Monégasque Rugby. He took part in the SouthAfrica/Monaco Rugby exchange with the Princess Charlène Foundation. He signed for Stade Niçois in 2013, where he was spotted and entered the Pôle Espoir rugby de Hyères. In 2015, he joined Rugby Club Toulonnais, with whom he was crowned Champion of France -16 years (2016), then Champion of France -18 years (2017) and Champion of France espoir (2019).
At the same time, he was European Champion -18 years (2017) and World Champion -20 years (2019) with the French rugby team.
Lacking playing time at Rugby Club Toulonnais, he opted to sign for Pro D2 side Oyonnax (2019-2021), where he took part in the Pro D2 championship semi-finals.
He returned to the Top 14 in 2021, signing with Castres Olympique until 2025, with whom he became vice-champion of the French Top 14 in 2022.
Antoine is also a French rugby 7s international, taking part in the World Seven Series in 2019, 2020 and 2023. With the French 7-a-side team, he wins a silver medal in Vancouver, Hamilton and Hong Kong in 2019, a bronze medal in Cape Town (2019) and a bronze medal in Hong Kong in 2023.
The year 2024 will be exceptional: he is made available to the French 7-a-side team by his club Castres Olympique to devote himself to preparing for the "Paris 2024" Olympic Games.
In February 2024, he and the French 7-a-side team won a bronze medal in Vancouver and a gold medal in Los Angeles at the World Seven Series. It had been 19 years since the French 7-a-side team had won a World Series tournament. In Hong Kong in April, he won the silver medal.
In July, at the "Paris 2024" Olympic Games, he wins the title of Olympic Rugby 7s Champion. During the Parade of Champions on the Champs Elysées, he is honored to receive the title of "Chevalier de la Légion d'Honneur" along with the entire French Rugby 7s team.
At the same time, he is in his 3rd year of the International Bachelor in Business Administration program at EDHEC.