Fencing, canoeing, judo… The French soldiers are already conquering the podium places at the Olympic Games in Paris. A success that is part of the long tradition of the Army of Champions and successor to the Joinville Battalion. But how does this globally unique model allow athletes to shine under the tricolor colors?
As the 2024 Olympic Games begin in Paris, the performances of the Army of Champions are hard to miss. With 9 medals already, including 2 gold and 3 silver, French military athletes are once again shining at the highest level. A success that is not the result of chance, but of a model unique in the world that allows these athletes to develop in the best conditions.
Das Erbe of the Joinville Battalions
Even though the name Army of Champions dates back to 2014, the French army’s commitment to elite athletes is not new. It has its roots in Joinville BattalionFounded in 1956 to enable young people called up for military service to pursue their sporting careers. Many French stars had their first experiences there, from Michel Platini to Yannick Noah.
Today these are 224 top athletes that develop within the various French armies. With no fewer than 78 soldiers present in Paris this summer, it was among the largest of the Olympic delegations. And the results are there, because historically more than half of France’s medals have been won by soldiers.
Tailored support
In order for these athletes to perform at their best, the Army offers them a ideal. Salary, medical care, physical and mental preparation… Everything is done so that they can fully dedicate themselves to their sport. Valuable support, especially in lesser-known disciplines where income is lower.
It’s reassuring because we know that the army will follow us to the end, even if we are injured.
Luka Mkheidze, silver medalist in judo
Beyond the financial aspect, there is also the opportunity to develop further in state-of-the-art infrastructure and benefit from expert supervision. Optimal conditions that often make the difference at the highest level. Not to mention the peace of mind that comes with status and the prospect of retraining.
An internationally envied model
Although this system may seem expensive with an annual budget of several million euros, it is being replicated abroad. Few countries offer such support to their athletes, as they often have to juggle training and odd jobs to make ends meet. An uncertainty that inevitably harms performance.
Conversely, the French model is characterized by this government investments in top sport. A strategic decision aimed at placing France in the top 5 at the Olympics. And given the early results in Paris, the Army of Champions is in the best position to carry the tricolor and set a new medal record.
