Seville, Spain, is preparing to host the first stage of the World Rowing Cup, marking its return to the international sporting stage after almost 24 years. The French rowing team is set to participate in this opening event of the international circuit.
Seville Ready to Host International Rowing
The competition will take place at La Cartuja, along the Guadalquivir River. Nearly 500 rowers from 37 nations, representing 215 crews, will gather in Seville. The Spanish basin, known for its six-kilometre natural course through the heart of the Andalusian city, is preparing to host a particularly dense field to kick off the international season.
French Team’s Preparation
The French team’s participation in Seville follows an international outing at the Memorial Paola d’Aloja in Piediluco, Italy, at the end of April. The Italian regatta allowed the French staff to test different crew compositions and gain initial insights against strong international competition. Following the competition, the French team underwent a three-week training camp in Varese, Italy, before returning to the Centre National d’Entraînement de Vaires-sur-Marne to finalise their preparation for this first major event of the season.
Encouraging Results from Piediluco
Several French crews are heading to Seville with encouraging results from Piediluco. The men’s coxless four, composed of Armand Pfister, Alister Gicqueau, Florian Ludwig, and Téo Rayet, had a successful weekend with four wins in four races. The women’s quadruple sculls team of Violaine Aernoudts, Margaux Bailleul, Agathe Oudet, and Milla Massemin also distinguished themselves with two final victories. Emma Lunatti, Hugo Roch, Victor Marcelot, Samuel Arque, Claire Bové, and Mya Bosquet all secured podium finishes during this first international outing.
Looking Ahead to Lucerne and the World Championships
Beyond the results, this first World Cup stage in Seville represents an important step in building the international season. It comes ahead of the second leg of the circuit in Lucerne and in anticipation of the World Championships, scheduled for 24–30 August 2026.
The performances of the French team can be followed throughout the weekend.