France`s decorated men`s national volleyball team recently received a significant national honour. In a ceremony held at the historic Elysee Palace, President Emmanuel Macron personally recognized the players and team officials for their outstanding achievements, most notably their gold medal triumph at the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games. The reception took place on World Volleyball Day, adding an extra layer of global significance to the national tribute.
This event marked the first official presidential acknowledgement of the team`s recent successes, a recognition perhaps delayed since the Tokyo victory but certainly not diminished. The wait underscores the packed schedule faced by elite athletes, leaving little room for formal celebration amidst continuous competition.
Twelve players from the Olympic roster were present, accompanied by their coaching staff – including former coach Laurent Tillie and current coach Andrea Giani – officials from the French Volleyball Federation led by President Eric Tanguy, and family members. President Macron addressed the team, reflecting on their remarkable journey. He highlighted their success in ending France`s 67-year wait for a major international title and securing the nation`s first Olympic gold in the sport.
President Macron emphasized that the honour was not solely based on results, exceptional as they are, but also on the team`s collective spirit, remarkable loyalty, and lasting positive impact on French sport. He reportedly addressed each player individually, acknowledging their specific contributions.
Individual excellence was formally recognized through national awards. Star players Theo Faure and Earvin Ngapeth were appointed as Knights of the Legion of Honour, one of France`s highest distinctions. A cohort of other key team members – Antoine Brizard, Kevin Tillie, Nicolas Le Goff, Jean Patry, Benjamin Toniutti, Barthelemy Chinenyeze, Jenia Grebennikov, and Yacine Louati – were designated Officers of the National Order of Merit. Trevor Clevenot had received the same honour in a separate ceremony previously.
This visit to the Elysee Palace, a first for the team in this capacity, reflects the significant growth and visibility of volleyball within France. Coming just as the team is preparing for demanding upcoming international competitions, including the Volleyball Nations League and the World Championship, the ceremony served both as a deserved recognition of past glory and a powerful source of motivation for the challenges ahead. The reception underscored the nation`s profound respect and high expectations for a team that has unequivocally etched its name in French sporting history.
Rupert Caldwell