One of the most creative and charismatic figures in modern handball is calling it a career. After 13 seasons as the heartbeat of Montpellier Handball and a historic international run, Diego Simonet has announced he will hang up his boots on June 6, 2026.
The final whistle for one of the game’s true artists will blow on Saturday, June 6, during Montpellier’s final home match against USAM Nîmes Gard. At the Sud de France Arena, a major chapter in the history of the sport will come to a close as “El Chino” takes his final bow.
The icon of Montpellier
Since arriving in the south of France in 2013, Simonet has been much more than a playmaker. With his unique flair, signature wrist shots, and infectious energy, he became the face of the club’s “Blue Heart.”
His statistics at Montpellier are nothing short of legendary:
– 360 matches played.
– 1,324 goals scored, many of them spectacular highlights.
– 7 major trophies, including 2 French Cups, 2 League Cups, and 2 Champions Trophies.
Photo: Bildbyrån
The absolute pinnacle of his club career came in 2018. Simonet led Montpellier to a historic Champions League title, becoming the first Argentine to ever win the trophy and earning the Final Four MVP award — a performance that cemented his place among the world’s elite.
The pride of Argentina
On the international stage, Simonet transformed Argentine handball. As the leader of “Los Gladiadores,” he proved that South American talent could compete with the European giants.
His international resume includes:
– 454 goals in 146 caps.
– 6 World Championships (from 2011 to 2023).
– 3 Olympic Games (London 2012, Tokyo 2020, and Paris 2024).
– 3 Pan American Gold Medals and 4 South/Central American titles.
Photo: Petter Arvidson / BILDBYRÅN
Tributes to a creative genius
The announcement has sparked emotional responses from his colleagues. Montpellier coach Erick Mathé highlighted Simonet’s unique mind for the game:
– It has been an immense pride to coach Diego. He is always positive and constantly looking forward. Diego is as creative on the court as he is in life. No doubt, in the future, we will have a play called ‘The Diego’, Mathé said to Montpelliers website.
Longtime teammate and captain Valentin Porte added:
– I’ve seen many departures in my career, but this one stands out because Diego is a great player and a great man. Sharing 10 years of my career with him was not insignificant.
One last hunt for silverware
Before the final farewell on June 6, Simonet isn’t done yet. Montpellier is still chasing two more trophies: the French Cup and the European League. Adding an eighth or ninth title to his tally would be the perfect exclamation point on a fantastic career.
From his roots at SAGV Ballester in Argentina, through spells in Brazil and Spain, to the bright lights of the Champions League in France—Diego Simonet’s journey has been a masterclass in creativity and passion.