Flagbearers in judo: Juan Postigos (PER)

Juan Postigos of Peru, one of the esteemed flagbearers in judo at the Paris Olympic Games, resides in Rouen, France, where he continues to train and refine his judo skills. Born in 1989, in Lima, Peru and 160 cm tall, he has become a prominent figure in the judo community, competing in his fourth Olympic Games in Paris.

Juan's Olympic journey began in London 2012, where he competed in the -60 kg category. He continued in the same category at the Rio 2016 Games, and in Tokyo 2020, he moved up to the -66 kg category. Despite his relentless efforts, he has yet to secure a podium finish at the Olympics, with his best result being a 17th place in Tokyo after a challenging match against Australia's Nathan Katz.

His performances at the IJF World Championships have also seen him consistently ranked, albeit not advancing to the medal stages, with his recent appearances in Abu Dhabi 2024 and Doha 2023 both placing him 33rd in the -66 kg category. On the World Tour, Juan's highest achievement was a 9th place finish in Tokyo, in 2021.

Juan's career highlights include a bronze medal at the 2017 Grand Prix in Cancun and a notable bronze at the 2011 Pan American Games. Additionally, he has amassed seven medals at the Pan American Championships, with three silvers and four bronzes, showcasing his resilience and skill on the continental stage.

Starting judo at a primary school in Rimac, Peru, Juan took up the sport to channel his hyperactive energy into something productive. This early start paved the way for his long-standing career, marked by dedication and perseverance. His judo journey led him to France in 2011, courtesy of an Olympic scholarship, where he sought better training opportunities. His move to France not only advanced his career but also enriched his personal life, allowing him to start a family and build a new home.

Known affectionately as "El Tigre" (The Tiger), Juan enjoys running, engaging with social media, and cooking in his leisure time. His most memorable sporting achievements include competing in three Olympic Games, winning a Pan American Games medal, and securing the Grand Prix bronze in Cancun.

Juan is deeply inspired by his mother, who he credits with giving him the wings to pursue his dreams in Europe. His sporting heroes include his coach, German Velazco, a former Olympian and world championship competitor. Before each competition, Juan prays to God, reflecting his deep faith and the spiritual dimension of his preparation.

Juan Postigos' journey from Peru to France epitomizes his philosophy: "Wrestler, fight until the end, never give up, leave nothing lost." 

Judo Flagbearers so far (updated Friday)

Amina Belkadi (ALG)

Ange Ciella Niragira (BUR)

Anna-Maria Wagner (GER)

Arnold Kisoka (COD)

Barbara Matic (CRO)

Djamila Silva (CPV)

Erlan Sherov (KGZ)

Faye Njie (GAM)

Gultaj Mammadaliyeva (AZE)

Hugo Cumbo (VAN)

Idalys Ortiz (CUB)

Izayana Marenco (NCA)

Juan Postigos (PER)

Klen Kristofer Kaljulaid (EST)

Krisztian Toth (HUN)

Larisa Ceric (BIH)

Manita Shrestha Pradhan (NEP)

Maryam March Maharani (INA)

Michaela Polleres (AUT)

Nora Gjakova (KOS)

Akil Gjakova (KOS)

Peter Paltchik (ISR)

Richelle Anita Soppi Mbella (CMR)

Serdar Rahimov (TKM)

Temur Rakhimov (TJK)

Valentin Houinato (BEN)

Thomas Mlugu (TAN)

Lukas Krpalek (CZE)