French Men’s Volleyball Team Honoured by President Macron

France`s national men`s volleyball team received national honours from President Emmanuel Macron at the Elysee Palace on Monday. Players and team officials were recognised nearly a year after their significant achievement, winning the Olympic gold medal at the Tokyo 2020 Games (held in 2021). This reception, held on the inaugural World Volleyball Day, served as the first official presidential tribute to the team following their Olympic success, with celebrations after the Tokyo victory having been delayed due to their packed competitive schedule.

Twelve members of the team attended the ceremony, joined by coaching staff, family members, and officials from the French Volleyball Federation. During the reception, President Macron highlighted the team`s remarkable journey and achievements, including ending a 67-year wait for major international titles and their historic Olympic triumph. He also acknowledged the vital contributions of former coach Laurent Tillie, current coach Andrea Giani, and federation president Eric Tanguy to the development of French volleyball.

Addressing the team, President Macron stated, “One week before our National Day, volleyball today celebrates its International Day for the first time in history. The recognition that the French Republic extends to you today, on July 7, is not based solely on results, although they are exceptional and I will return to them, but on a collective journey, remarkable loyalty and a lasting impact on French sport.”

President Macron spoke with each player individually before presenting their honours. Theo Faure and Earvin Ngapeth were appointed Knights of the Legion of Honour. Antoine Brizard, Kevin Tillie, Nicolas Le Goff, Jean Patry, Benjamin Toniutti, Barthelemy Chinenyeze, Jenia Grebennikov, and Yacine Louati were named Officers of the National Order of Merit. Trevor Clevenot had received the same honour in a separate ceremony the previous September.

This event marked the team`s first formal visit to the Elysee Palace, signifying the increasing popularity and success of volleyball in France. As the squad prepares for upcoming international competitions, including the Volleyball Nations League and the World Championship in the Philippines, the ceremony served both as a fitting tribute to their past achievements and a significant source of motivation for future challenges.