Olympian Laura Flessel-Colovic sets example as French Sports Minister

14 | 6 | 2017

World Olympians Association has hailed the recent appointment of Olympian Laura Flessel-Colovic to the position of Minister of Sport for France.

Flessel-Colovic, a double Olympic and six-time world fencing champion, was appointed last month to the high–ranking government post following the inauguration of French President Emmanuel Macron. She is currently serving in the government of Prime Minister Édouard Philippe.

The 45-year-old’s incredible sporting career spanned five Olympic Games, saw her win gold in the individual and team épée events at the Atlanta 1996 Olympic Games and act a Flag Bearer for France at London 2012. Her total haul of five Olympic medals is the most won by any French female Olympian.

World Olympians Association President Joël Bouzou, said:

“WOA welcomes the recent appointment of Olympian Laura Flessel-Colovic to the role of Minister of Sport for France. Her appointment is a wonderful example of the potential for Olympians to become strong leaders and influential decision-makers at the highest levels of sport governance and we applaud the government of France for its astute choice.

“It is vital that Olympians are involved in sport administration at all levels but it is particularly pleasing to see an Olympian appointed to such a prominent position.  I am confident Laura Flessel-Colovic will act in the best interests of sport in France, representing athletes at all ages, levels and abilities.

“On a personal level, I recall meeting Laura when she was a young fencing hopeful growing up in Guadeloupe and I was touring the country as World Champion and Olympic Medallist in Modern Pentathlon. It has been a privilege to follow her career since that time and watch her become a wonderful Olympic Champion and now a leader of sport in France. I wish her the best for the challenges and opportunities ahead.”

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