Frederique Jossinet new high performance boss in France

The French Judo Federation has revealed a key figure in its high-performance structure for the 2024–2028 Olympic cycle. Following the departures of Christophe Massina and Baptiste Leroy (now a coach at PSG Judo) after the Paris Games, Frédérique Jossinet, Athens 2004 Olympic silver medalist, former vice president of France Judo in charge of high performance, and president of the selection committee for the past four years, will take charge of the French national judo teams.

A Strategic Appointment

France Judo President Stéphane Nomis explained the deliberate thought process behind the appointment:
"I didn’t want to make the wrong choice for such critical stakes. I even considered bringing in a foreign expert but had nearly decided on Frédérique after seeing her energy and competence during the lead-up to the Paris Games. She worked exceptionally well with Baptiste Leroy, and beyond her extraordinary career as an athlete, she has a profound understanding of what it takes to achieve high-level performance. This role builds on her significant contributions so far, and we are confident she will continue to serve French judo with the same dedication."

Jossinet will oversee high-performance judo across junior and senior levels with a four-year mandate extending to the Los Angeles 2028 Games.

Jossinet’s Vision

In a phone interview by our colleagues of Lesprit du Judo, Jossinet expressed her honor at being entrusted with such a responsibility while acknowledging the immense challenge ahead:
"This is a vast task, both personally and collectively. The international judo landscape is constantly evolving, with increased competition, significant rule changes, and a distinct approach to the Los Angeles Games compared to Paris, particularly with the added challenge of qualifying our athletes."

Jossinet emphasized the importance of building on the collaborative ecosystem developed during the Paris cycle:
"We began to change our approach to high performance by fostering better collaboration across the French judo ecosystem. Now, we will intensify this evolution to leverage all available expertise. Unity and complementary skills will be our strength. By pooling energy and competence, we aim to produce excellence."

Immediate Goals and New Initiatives

Jossinet’s first priority is restructuring the coaching teams by appointing new national coaches for both men’s and women’s squads. Additionally, she plans to organise a series of high-performance forums involving a broad representation of professionals and experts within the French judo community—a groundbreaking initiative to foster innovation and collaboration.

With this appointment, French judo signals a new era of dynamic leadership and enhanced collaboration, aiming to build on its rich history of success and adapt to the demands of a rapidly evolving sport.

Who is she?

Lightweight Frédérique Jossinet was 2004 Olympic finalist against Ryoko Tani, won four World Championships medals (2 finals) and three European titles (2001, 2002 and 2009). Fought in 9 Tournoi de Paris finals. 9 European medals. Works at the Ministry. Jossinet is multiple French champion. She triumphed at the German Open World Masters in 1995 and 1998.