In a ceremony underscoring the pinnacle of national and sporting achievement, the prestigious Élysée Palace in Paris recently became the backdrop for a significant event for European volleyball. French President Emmanuel Macron hosted a special reception to confer the Legion of Honour, France`s highest decoration, upon the members of the men`s national volleyball team.
The honor was bestowed following the team`s remarkable gold medal victory at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games. This triumph marked a historic milestone, as France secured back-to-back Olympic titles, a feat previously accomplished only by powerhouse nations like the former Soviet Union and the United States in men`s volleyball history.
Representing the European volleyball community at this high-profile gathering was CEV President Roko Sikirić. His attendance at the presidential palace underscored the increasing prominence of volleyball on the international stage and the strong relationship between the CEV and French sports authorities.
Mr. Sikirić described the occasion as a “truly special moment,” acknowledging President Macron`s dedicated effort to personally honor the athletes. President Macron`s address also included recognition for the leadership of the French Volleyball Federation (FFVolley), specifically praising President Éric Tanguy for his role in the sustained success of French volleyball programs.
Adding a layer of symbolic significance, the ceremony took place on July 7th, a date celebrated globally as World Volleyball Day. This alignment amplified the emotional weight of the event for all participants.
During the reception, CEV President Sikirić had the opportunity for direct engagement with President Macron. Discussions centered on the robust cooperation between the CEV and FFVolley and the strategic vision for future joint initiatives. These collaborative projects aim to further elevate volleyball`s profile and reach across Europe. France is set to play a pivotal role in these efforts, notably by hosting the upcoming CEV General Assembly in Paris on November 8th.
Mr. Sikirić also shared a personal connection to France, referencing his past experience as a professional volleyball player in the country. Furthermore, he highlighted his current position as the youngest ever President of a European sports organization, a point of shared experience given President Macron`s own historical distinction as the youngest French President upon his election in 2017. This shared background provided a unique context for their exchange on leadership and vision.
The event at the Élysée Palace also served as a valuable platform for networking and dialogue with other influential figures in French sport, including the French Minister of Sports, Marie Barsacq, and the recently elected President of the French National Olympic and Sports Committee (CNOSF), Amélie Oudéa-Castera.
In summary, the ceremony at the Élysée Palace was a powerful statement on the value placed upon sporting excellence at the highest level of French governance. CEV President Sikirić`s participation solidified European volleyball`s presence at this key national celebration, fostering valuable connections and setting a positive course for future collaborative endeavors between the CEV and France in promoting the sport.
Torin Vale