Algeria’s comeback in Paris aims to frighten away Tokyo 2020’s ghosts
The North African nation has set out on a new course, trying to win over millions of French citizens with Algerian heritage and turn Paris 2024 into a home for the Djamel Sedjati-led Olympic team.
“If yesterday was awful, it doesn’t matter, because today there is new light, new dreams, new life,” goes the adage. The Algerian Olympic Committee is approaching the forthcoming month of competition in the French capital with this mentality.
Djamel Sedjati, the silver medallist from the most recent World Championships, will carry the torch, signifying the rich history of middle-distance running in Algeria. He’ll be the front-runner for a medal once more as he looks to make up for his loss at the last Tokyo Games.
Three years prior, Algeria sent 41 athletes to compete in 14 sports in the Japanese capital, but Sedjati and steeplechase runner Bilal Tabti were disqualified from the Olympics right away due to COVID-19 test complications.
In its history, Algeria has won five gold medals. It’s interesting to note that four of them originated in middle distance running, courtesy of national champions in the sport like Noureddine Morceli, Hassiba Boulmerka, Nouria Merah-Benida, and Taoufik Makhloufi.
The head of Algeria’s delegation at the Paris Games, Kheireddine Barbari, sought to dispel the misconception that the country only competes in track events. He stated that medal hopes in Paris “are not limited to just that discipline” and that the country is also “very prepared to honor the national flag.”
An enthusiastic Barbari announced ahead of the opening day of July 26 that Algeria has champions in boxing, athletics, gymnastics, and other sports with the credentials and heritage to be on the podiums.
An enthusiastic Barbari announced ahead of the opening day of July 26 that Algeria has champions in boxing, athletics, gymnastics, and other sports with the credentials and heritage to be on the podiums.
When questioned about his thoughts on the Paris stage, Barbari said, “This edition of the Games will be fantastic for Algerians owing to the enormous population we have in France, who will definitely support our winners in all disciplines.”
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