The 2023 European Judo Championship begins this Friday in Montpellier, and the stakes are high for the French team. Indeed, this competition is of particular importance because it can help secure a place for the Paris Olympic Games. With the rule allowing only one representative per country and per weight category, competition is fierce within the French delegation.
For certain judokas, like Luka Mkheidze, bronze medalist in Tokyo, a victory at the European Championships would allow them to get closer to the Olympic selection. However, the road is not easy and nothing is certain yet. Intense duels are looming, particularly among the men with the rivalry between Walide Khyar and Maxime Gobert in under 66 kg, as well as among the women between Madeleine Malonga and Audrey Tcheuméo in under 78 kg.
But one of the most anticipated duels will take place in the women’s under 70 kg, between PSG Judo teammates Marie-Ève Gahié and Margaux Pinot. Both vying for a place at the Olympic Games, they find themselves facing an intense rivalry. The battle rages between the 8th and 11th in the world, and the European Championships could play a decisive role in the race for selection.
This constant rivalry can be both trying and motivating for both judokas. They both assure that this pushes them to surpass themselves and to constantly seek to improve. Despite the pressure that accompanies this competition and internal competition, they remain focused on their personal goals and use this rivalry as an engine to progress.
As for the management of the French team, the puzzle of selection arises. How to manage this competition and maintain a good working atmosphere in a context where stress and rivalries are omnipresent? Team leaders seek to find the balance between competitiveness and the cohesion necessary to best represent France during the Olympic Games.
In conclusion, the 2023 European Judo Championship in Montpellier is a crucial meeting for the French team. The athletes fight for a place at the Paris Olympics, but they also have to deal with internal competition and rivalry between teammates. It’s a real headache for the management, but this intense competition pushes the judokas to surpass themselves and give the best of themselves. Come to the tatami mats of Montpellier for intense and thrilling fights!