Former Ireland high-performance rowing director Antonio Maurogiovanni has been appointed to a new role with the French Rowing Federation.
The Italian oversaw the last two Olympiads, during which Ireland won four medals. The team for Paris 2024 included a record seven crews and secured gold and bronze medals. His achievements as the head of Ireland’s programme also included a string of World Championship and European Championship medals.
The Italy-born Olympian had been in the position since 2017. Despite optimism that Maurogiovanni’s contract with Ireland would be renewed, Rowing Ireland decided to go in a different direction for the Los Angeles Games in 2028.
Today, it was announced that Maurogiovanni will take up a role with the French Rowing Federation. The organisation cited his ability to develop talent and foster collective excellence as key reasons for his hire.
“His philosophy, focused on talent development and collective excellence, reflects his vision as a coach and leader: ‘All nations have good athletes. The challenge for a national team manager is to successfully identify them and create an appropriate environment to allow them to progress and perform,’” said the French Rowing Federation in a statement.
La Fédération française d'aviron est heureuse d'annoncer l'arrivée d'Antonio Maurogiovanni en tant que directeur des équipes de France d'aviron !
Plus d'informations 👉 https://t.co/AHTPCzijsG pic.twitter.com/V1MAwuyRjW
— Fédération Française d'Aviron (@FFAviron) December 16, 2024
“With his unique international experience, cultural adaptability, and ability to build environments conducive to performance, Antonio Maurogiovanni is ready to take on the challenge of leading the French rowing team to new heights by supporting the expertise already present within the French management.”
The Italian also expressed his gratitude and excitement for the new role:
“I am honoured to be appointed Director of the French Rowing Teams, and I look forward to this new challenge. French rowing has a great and beautiful history, and I am deeply committed to establishing a sustainable high-performance system that will deliver results across all categories.
“I look forward to working closely with the rowers of the French rowing teams to cultivate current talent, identify and support future athletes, and collaborate with competent technicians.
“I thank the President of the French Rowing Federation, the National Technical Director, and the Steering Committee for entrusting me with this important role. Together, we will strive to perpetuate the legacy and advance French rowing.”
