Elite Junior triathletes set to compete in Italy

France has unveiled its national selection of ten promising junior triathletes who will represent the nation at the prestigious European Caorle Junior Cup in Italy on May 9th and 10th. This competition serves as a crucial evaluation ground for selecting members of the French team that will compete in this year’s European Junior championships.

Strategic Focus on Junior Development

Sence 2023, the National Technical Directorate (DTN) has adopted a strategic approach to junior international competitions, focusing on targeted participation in events featuring J1 and D2 athletes. This approach aims to provide focused development opportunities for younger athletes while carefully managing their exposure to high-level competition. This strategy aligns with global trends in youth sports, emphasizing long-term athlete development over immediate results. For example, organizations like the International Olympic Committee have increasingly promoted initiatives that prioritize athlete well-being and enduring performance pathways.

Selection Criteria and Process

Consistent with the past two years, only athletes born in 2006 and 2007 (J1 and J2 categories) were eligible for selection to the national team. The selection process adhered strictly to established criteria, considering performances at the 2024 European and Junior World Championships, the 2024 European Championships, and dedicated selection trials held in Cannes on March 15th and 16th, 2025.

The Selected Athletes: A Blend of Experience and Emerging Talent

Following a thorough review by the selection committee, the National Technical Director announced the following athletes who will represent France:

Women’s Team

• Amber Grasset: 2024 Junior World Champion and first in the 2025 selection trials.
• Léa Houart: Third in the 2024 Junior World Championship and second in the 2025 selection trials.
• Lisa Lecompte: Third in the 2024 European Junior Championship, eighth in the 2024 Junior World Championship, and fourth in the 2025 selection trials.
• Lily Pourous: Fifth in the 2024 European Championship Youth and third in the 2025 selection trials.
• Anouk Rigaud: 2024 European Champion Youth and fifth in the 2025 selection trials.

Men’s Team

• Achille Besson: Third in the 2024 Junior World Championship and first in the 2025 selection trials.
• Martin Hubner: Second in the 2025 selection trials.
• Simon Lebois: Third in the 2025 selection trials.
• Insing Adel: Fourth in the 2025 selection trials.
• Léni Remier-Mancini: 2024 European Champion Youth and eighth in the 2025 selection trials.

Additional Registration Proposals

Beyond the national selection, the DTN has also extended registration proposals for one female and five male athletes to participate in the European Junior Cup of Caorle. These proposals are primarily based on the athletes’ performances during the 2025 selection trials. These athletes include Salomé Astier, Milan River, thevenard team, Etienne Le Roux, Keran Gallou, and Tristan Showed. however, these registrations are contingent upon the athletes’ acceptance of the proposal and the acquisition of the necessary bibs from World Triathlon.

Looking Ahead

The European Caorle junior Cup represents a meaningful opportunity for these young athletes to gain valuable international experience and showcase their talent on a european stage. Their performance in Italy will undoubtedly play a crucial role in shaping the final roster for the European Junior Championships. The French triathlon community eagerly anticipates their success.