Title: On the road to Paris: The 2023 European Judo Championships mark a decisive step for the French team
Introduction :
The European Judo Championships which took place from November 3 to 5 were marked by the domination of the French team. With nine medals won, including five titles, French judokas have shone on the international scene. These championships are of particular importance in view of the Paris Olympic Games. They allow us to make an initial assessment of the chances of selecting athletes for the long-awaited event. A look back at the highlights of this competition and the perspectives it offers to French judokas.
A remarkable performance:
The results obtained by the French team during the European Judo Championships are simply exceptional. With nine medals, including five gold, the French judokas have proven their talent and determination. Remarkable individual performances marked this competition. Among them, the triple European champion, Shirine Boukli, who won the -48kg category brilliantly. Amandine Buchard, Olympic vice-champion, also shone by winning the gold medal in the -52kg category. On the men’s side, Luka Mkheidze took the advantage over Romain Valadier-Picard in the race for Olympic qualification in -60kg.
Olympic issues:
These European Championships are of crucial importance in the run-up to the Paris Olympic Games in 2024. Indeed, competition is fierce within the French team. Only one place is allocated per weight category, which means that French judokas are in direct competition against each other to get their ticket to the Olympics. The performances achieved during this competition allow us to get a little closer to the ultimate objective: representing France at the Paris Olympic Games and trying to win gold in front of its audience.
The path to selection:
The European Championships allowed certain French judokas to score important points in the race for Olympic qualification. Marie-Ève Gahié, world champion in 2019, won a decisive victory in the -70kg category against Margaux Pinot. Romane Dicko, undefeated in the European Championships, confirmed her favorite status by winning the +78kg title. These exceptional performances allow these athletes to move a little closer to selection for the Paris Olympic Games.
Conclusion :
The 2023 European Judo Championships were a real success for the French team. With nine medals won, including five titles, French judokas showed the extent of their talent and scored points in preparation for the Paris Olympic Games. Remarkable individual performances allowed some athletes to gain an advantage in the race for Olympic qualification. The road to Paris is still long, but these European Championships were a decisive step for the French judo team.