Antalya, Turkey – France has announced its team of six compound archers who will compete at the European Championships in Antalya, Turkey, from May 18-24. The selections follow two days of trials, and signal a strong commitment to both experienced athletes and emerging talent as the team prepares for a busy international schedule.
Leading the men’s team will be Nicolas Girard, who topped the rankings at Compiègne. He will be joined by François Dubois, who finished second in the trials, and Jean-Philippe Boulch, securing the third spot. The trio, having demonstrated impressive teamwork throughout the outdoor season, will aim to continue their momentum into 2026. This selection underscores the depth of talent within the French men’s compound archery program.
On the women’s side, Anaëlle Florent has successfully transitioned to compound archery, claiming the top spot in the final selection rankings. She will be accompanied by Léa Girault and Sophie Dodemont, who finished second and third respectively. This combination of experience and youth promises a dynamic and competitive presence for France in the women’s competition. Florent’s recent success highlights her adaptability and potential in the compound discipline.
World Cup Schedule Confirmed
The six selected archers will also participate in the second stage of the Archery World Cup in Shanghai, China, from May 5-10. Prior to that, Anaëlle Florent, Léa Girault, François Dubois, and Nicolas Girard will travel to Puebla, Mexico, from April 7-12 for the first stage of the World Cup. This rigorous schedule will provide valuable competitive experience as the athletes prepare for the European Championships and beyond.
The European Championships in Antalya are a key event on the archery calendar, offering a platform for athletes to showcase their skills and compete for coveted titles. Antalya, a popular destination for international sporting events, provides a scenic backdrop for this high-stakes competition. The city previously hosted the 2024 European Cross Country Championships in December, demonstrating its capacity to host major athletic events.
Girard’s Rise to Prominence
Nicolas Girard’s selection is particularly noteworthy, as he recently achieved a significant milestone in his career. According to a report from Archysport in June 2025, Girard secured victory in the men’s compound event at the Archery World Cup in Antalya, Turkey, stunning the field and defeating American favorite Nick Kappers in the final. The win marked Girard’s first World Cup gold in three years and signaled his emergence as a force to be reckoned with in the international archery scene.
The Archysport report detailed a thrilling final match between Girard and Kappers, with Girard displaying remarkable composure to seize the lead and ultimately win 157-154. This victory followed a challenging path to the final, where Girard overcame Italian Michea Godano in the semi-final with a score of 158-154. Girard’s success is a testament to his dedication and hard work, as he continues to refine his skills and compete at the highest level.
Florent’s Transition and Potential
Anaëlle Florent’s inclusion in the team is also a significant development. As noted in the source material, her recent switch to compound archery has been remarkably successful. This transition demonstrates her versatility and adaptability as an athlete. Her performance in the selection trials underscores her potential to make a significant impact on the international stage. World Archery reported on Florent’s move to compound archery, highlighting her potential in the discipline.
The French team’s participation in the upcoming competitions represents a significant opportunity to build on their recent successes and establish themselves as a leading force in international archery. The combination of experienced athletes and rising stars positions France well for a strong performance in both the European Championships and the Archery World Cup series. Fans can expect exciting competition and compelling storylines as the team embarks on this challenging and rewarding journey.
The next confirmed checkpoint for the team is the first stage of the Archery World Cup in Puebla, Mexico, from April 7-12. Stay tuned to Archysport for updates and coverage of the team’s progress throughout the season.
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