The Olympics are fast approaching, and France is gearing up to welcome athletes from all corners of the world. For Nikola Karabatić, nearing the end of his Olympic career, this championship represents a final opportunity to etch his name into the Olympic record books.
Paris 2024 will mark the ninth consecutive edition of the Olympic Games in which France’s men’s team participates. The team has never finished worse than sixth place, which occurred in Sydney 2000. Impressively, France has secured five Olympic medals: three golds, one silver, and one bronze.
Since Athens 2004, no men’s Olympic final has been without France. Additionally, France has won 47 out of 62 matches played, boasting a winning percentage of 75%, the highest among teams with at least 30 matches in Olympic history. The pressure is certainly on France, having clinched three of the last four Olympic editions.
However, this Olympics holds special significance, particularly for Nikola Karabatić. He is set to retire after Paris 2024, marking his fifth Olympic appearance at the age of 40, having played 32 matches so far. It is highly likely that Karabatić will surpass the record for most matches played in Olympic history, currently held by Andrey Lavrov.
Expectations are high for Paris 2024, especially with the home advantage potentially giving France the edge needed to reach the final and potentially secure another gold medal. Nonetheless, the group stage presents a tough challenge, with France facing Denmark, Norway, Hungary, Egypt, and Argentina.
France’s previous Olympic performances:
1992: Bronze
1996: 4th place
2000: 6th place
2004: 5th place
2008: Gold
2012: Gold
2016: Silver
2020: Gold
Source: IHF