Clarisse Agbégnénou opposes the “new rules” for selecting French flag bearers for Paris 2024.

Clarisse Agbégnénou, judo champion, in the turmoil of the new rules for designating French standard bearers

\n\nThe French judo champion, Clarisse Agbégnénou, strongly opposed the new rules put in place by the French National Olympic Sports Committee (CNOSF) for the designation of flag bearers for the next Olympic Games Paris 2024.\n\n

Resolute Opposition to the New Rules

\n\nClarisse Agbégnénou, four-time world champion and Olympic runner-up, has expressed her disagreement with the new system of selecting flag bearers, which she believes harms athletes who have already achieved remarkable feats.\n\nIn an interview with L'Équipe, the welterweight judoka said: "I find it unfair. We already give everything for our country and our sport, and instead of recognizing this effort and this devotion, they bring changes that seem to distract from what is truly important - the honor of representing our country."\n\n

The Crux of the Problem

\n\nThe crux of the problem is that the CNOSF recently changed the criteria for selecting the flag bearer for Paris 2024. The old rules mainly recognized the sporting achievements of athletes. Today, the new system gives more weight to their social commitment, their communication and their participation in projects linked to the legacy of the Games.\n\n“I have nothing against these criteria, but I think that these are things which should complement our sporting performances, and not eclipse them,” added Agbégnénou.\n\n

A Fervent Ambition to Carry the French Flag

\n\nClarisse Agbégnénou has always expressed her desire to carry the French flag at the Olympic Games. For her, it would be the ultimate recognition of all the sacrifices she has made to reach the pinnacle of her sport. The introduction of the new rules now appears to be an obstacle to this objective.\n\n

Waiting for the response from the CNOSF

\n\nThe CNOSF, which was surprised by the reactions provoked by these new rules, has not yet responded to the strong opposition of which Clarisse Agbégnénou is the spokesperson. We hope that this debate will lead to a consensus that respects both the sporting and social ambitions of the Olympic movement. \n\n