- George Chung
- Aug 19, 2024
- 2 min read
Christophe Massina's career with the French Judo Federation is nothing short of legendary. With 20 years dedicated to the sport, Massina has been a pivotal force behind some of the most memorable moments in French judo history. His journey as a coach began in 2004 when he took charge of the French U23 women's team, laying the groundwork for a career that would see him ascend to the pinnacle of judo coaching.
Massina first stepped onto the Olympic stage as part of the coaching team at Athens 2004. However, it was after the London 2012 Olympics that his role truly evolved. After working with the women's elite team for four years, he transitioned to coaching the elite men's team following the Rio 2016 Olympics. His leadership was crucial in shaping the French judo teams that competed at the highest level.
In March 2022, Massina was appointed head coach of the elite women's team, a role that saw him lead the French national team to yet another historic achievement at the Paris 2024 Olympics. Under his guidance, the team clinched their second consecutive Olympic gold in the mixed team event, once again defeating the powerhouse Japanese team. Reflecting on this victory, Massina said, "We have finished with a team gold and so many great emotions. This is a great medal to win again against the Japanese team."
Throughout his coaching career, Massina played a key role in some of the most significant achievements in French judo. He was the mastermind behind Emilie Andéol's Olympic gold at Rio 2016 and was a crucial figure in the national team’s mixed team triumph at Tokyo 2020. The victory at Paris 2024, however, marks a fitting capstone to his illustrious career.
Despite his promising junior career as an athlete, Massina didn't achieve the same level of success in senior individual competitions. However, his contributions to the French men's judo team, which won European and World Championship medals in team events, paved the way for his successful transition into coaching. His career as a coach is a testament to his ability to inspire and lead, bringing countless victories to the French judo teams over the years.
Massina's strategic brilliance was on full display during the Paris 2024 mixed team final. After a three-year Olympic cycle, he rallied his team with the belief that they could once again defeat their rivals. In a dramatic turn of events, Joan Gaba's victory over Hifumi Abe and Clarisse Agbegnenou’s clutch win brought the team level, setting the stage for their ultimate victory. Massina’s foresight in identifying Agbegnenou as the "finish girl" was a masterstroke, echoing her decisive performance in Tokyo.
As Massina steps away from his role with the French national team, he does so with a sense of fulfillment. "I stop my career with this! I’m happy to move on, I’m complete thanks to them and this," he remarked, signaling the end of an era. While his future plans remain uncertain, Massina leaves behind a legacy of excellence and unforgettable memories in the world of judo. His impact on the sport will be felt for years to come.
