french Judo Federation Announces Major Leadership Shakeup
The French Judo Federation has unveiled a notable restructuring of its leadership team, appointing Olympic champion Lucie Décosse as the new manager of the women’s national team. This move comes after Décosse initially declined a similar offer three years ago.
Décosse, a three-time world champion and London Olympic gold medalist, will be supported by a seasoned team. Joining her are Jane Bridge, the first-ever female judo world champion, who previously advised the Swedish national team, and Kilian Le Blouch, a Tokyo olympic gold medalist who has coached rising stars like shirine Boukli, a bronze medalist at the Paris Games.
This appointment is part of a broader organizational overhaul within the French Judo Federation. Despite a prosperous Paris Games, where the French team secured 10 medals, the federation is implementing changes too further strengthen its competitive edge.
Frédérique Jossinet, an Olympic silver medalist from Athens 2004, has been named the new manager of the French teams, succeeding Bastien Puget. Daniel Fernandes, a current coach, will take on the responsibility of leading the men’s team, following Baptiste Leroy’s decision to join the PSG judo program. Fernandes will be assisted by Franck Chambily,Teddy Riner’s former coach,and Ludovic Delacotte,who previously coached the women’s team.
A Judo Revolution: Décosse Takes the Helm – An Exclusive Interview with Teddy Riner
The French Judo Federation has just announced a seismic shift in its leadership structure, and the judo world is abuzz. Joining us today to dissect these changes and their potential impact is none othre than the legendary Teddy Riner, two-time Olympic champion and ten-time world champion.
Welcome Teddy, thanks for taking the time to chat today.
Teddy Riner: My pleasure. It’s always good to talk judo.
Let’s jump right in.The Federation has appointed Lucie Décosse as the new women’s coach. You’ve had the opportunity to train alongside Lucie throughout your careers. What are your thoughts on this appointment?
Teddy Riner: I’m thrilled for Lucie. She’s a champion, a born leader, and has the experience and knowledge to really take the women’s team to the next level. It’s no secret she initially declined a similar offer a few years back. What changed?
Teddy Riner: I think Lucie realised the timing is right. This is a team with immense potential, and she can be the catalyst to unlock it. Plus, she’s taken on a phenomenal support team with Jane Bridge and Kilian Le Blouch – a wealth of experience and fresh perspectives.
Absolutely. A truly formidable coaching trio. Now, beyond the coaching appointments, the Federation has shown a strong commitment to restructuring. Do you see this as purely a reaction to performance or a proactive move to ensure future success?
Teddy Riner: I wouldn’t say it’s a reaction, more of an evolution. The Paris Games were a success, but the judo world is incredibly competitive.
The Federation understands that to remain at the forefront, they need to constantly innovate and adapt. This restructuring is about staying ahead of the curve.
[Host] Absolutely. There’s no room for complacency in elite sport. And this is evident in the appointment of Daniel Fernandes to head the men’s team. It’s a big responsibility, taking over from Baptiste Leroy.What are your thoughts on Daniel and the team he’s put together?
Teddy riner: Daniel’s a strong choice. he’s worked his way up through the ranks, knows the system inside out, and has a great rapport with the athletes. And having Franck Chambily and Ludovic Delacotte supporting him, that’s a winning formula.
I’m notably interested in the broader vision for the federation.
Frédérique Jossinet taking on the role of overall manager signifies a real commitment to building a strong, unified program. What impact do you think this will have on the future of French Judo?
Teddy Riner: I think it’s crucial. Having a central figure like Frédérique overseeing both the men’s and women’s programs will create a sense of cohesion and shared purpose.
It’ll ensure resources are allocated effectively and strategies are aligned, ultimately leading to a stronger and more lasting judo ecosystem.
And Teddy, what message do you have for the French judo community, both athletes and fans, as we embark on this new chapter?
Teddy Riner: Be excited! This is a time of exciting change and opportunity. with the new leadership in place and the incredible talent we have across all levels, the future of French Judo is incredibly bright.
Now we want to hear from you! What are your thoughts on these changes? Do you agree with Teddy Riner’s assessment? join the conversation in the comments below.