Israeli Sprinter Blessing Afrifah Joins French National Team Training

Israeli sprinter Blessing Afrifah will begin training with the French national athletics team in Paris, following the appointment of his coach, Renaud Longuèvre, to a coaching position with the French team. The French Athletics Federation announced Longuèvre's appointment as one of its national coaches, leading to Afrifah's move to train under him at the INSEP facility in Paris. This transition is in preparation for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.

Afrifah, who holds Israeli national records in the 100 and 200 meters, previously left the Dutch national team after a year and a half training at the Papendal Olympic facility in Arnhem. He will now relocate to France to train alongside the French national sprinters. The move is directly linked to Longuèvre, who previously coached Afrifah during his time in the Netherlands.

The 55-year-old French coach had a prior role as the professional director for the Israeli Athletics Association before moving to the Dutch team, where he worked with their 4x100 meter relay squad. He recently departed the Dutch team to return to France.

The French Athletics Federation stated that Longuèvre will officially start his new role this week, overseeing short sprints, long jump, hurdles, and the French 4x100 meter relay team. Afrifah is expected to commence training at INSEP, France's National Institute of Sport, Expertise, and Performance, shortly. Three other Dutch runners are also anticipated to move to Paris and train under Longuèvre.

This move marks a new chapter for Afrifah after his stint in the Netherlands, which was part of a collaboration between the Israeli and Dutch Athletics Federations. He aims to continue his professional development in France as part of his preparations for the 2028 Olympic Games.