Original Source: www.lequipe.fr
The European Cross Country Championships are a prominent event in the athletics calendar, showcasing elite athletes from various nations. The French long-distance running team has made significant strides in this arena, marked by historical achievements and strong competitive spirits. This year, the focus grows as they prepare for a heightened contest against formidable opponents, including past champions. The anticipation builds as athletes aim not only for personal glory but also to uplift their national pride amidst fierce international competition.
The French long-distance running team is gearing up with ambitious spirits for the upcoming Cross Country European Championships in Antalya, Turkey, on December 8th. Last year, the spotlight shone brightly on Yann Schrub, who made history by clinching France’s first-ever title in cross country. With the formidable Jakob Ingebrigtsen set to compete this year, spectators can expect heightened rivalry, yet hope blooms in the hearts of the French team, eager to carve their path to glory.
This Wednesday, the French Athletics Federation announced their selection for the much-anticipated event, revealing no surprises. Although Jimmy Gressier, the champion from the selection race in Allonnes, opted for joy in a different race in Switzerland, the team retains its strength with titleholder Yann Schrub, whose passion for the challenge pulls him back into the fray.
Supporting Schrub will be a talented squad including Bastien Augusto, Alexis Miellet, Valentin Gondouin—who trains alongside Gressier—and newcomer Donovan Christien, stepping in to replace Gressier. As Patrice Binelli, head of the cross-country section of FFA, stated, “Our men’s team traditionally excels at the European Championships, and we expect 2024 to be no different with experienced athletes like our reigning champion, Yann Schrub, leading the charge.”
The women’s team bears impressive aspirations as well. Manon Trapp, showing exceptional form at the Allonnes cross, aims to challenge for a podium finish. The collective force of the French women seems more potent than ever with Flavie Renouard, Sarah Madeleine, Alice Mitard, and Célia Tabet ready to contribute their talents.
Moreover, the mixed relay team promises excitement with Agathe Guillemot, the ninth-place finisher in the 1500m at the Olympics, partnered with Simon Bédard, Émilie Girard, and Antoine Senard—the only titleholder from last year’s competition. As the team prepares to race against esteemed rivals, the French athletes are not merely participants; they are warriors poised to conquer the challenges of cross-country, their enthusiasm echoing across the fields of Antalya.
