“The performance has been spectacular. The competition that we have done in Poland is the continuation of the results that Spanish sport achieves every weekend”, assures Alejandro Blanco in a meeting with the Press to assess the results of the European Games in Krakow. 57 medals (21 gold, 17 silver and 19 bronze; second in the medal table after Italy); 220 athletes in 259 finals (85% of the delegation achieved a medal or diploma, 20 of the 22 federations with a finalist position except breaking and judo); five have been first in the medal table (beach handball, beach soccer, swimming, paddle tennis and taekwondo)… indisputable numbers to demonstrate success in a competition that has completed its third edition and for which Blanco is ‘responsible’: “The Games Europeans were approved in Valencia and they were a desire that I had and that crystallized. There are three editions and there are no limits”.
“We must thank the COE and the federations for the work that is done; without it these data would not be possible. And, of course, to the athletes who dedicate their lives and put in all the effort and full dedication. The present and future of Spanish sport is highly guaranteed. We must try to bring more medals than ever from Paris 2024 ”, intervenes Víctor Francos, Secretary of State and president of the CSD. Medals, Games… it’s time to talk about Paris 2024 and there Blanco gets wet: “This is the first time I’ve said this: I’m convinced that we will surpass the 22 medals in Barcelona. I am very optimistic for Paris, we are doing very well and I believe that the best is yet to come. The path indicates that we can improve that number of Barcelona 92, which is the great objective”.
CONSOLIDATED AND FOR THE FUTURE.
The health of Spanish sport is fantastic, but… what is the secret? White replies:We have the best athletes and coaches in the world, as well as the best private clubs and the best federation structure. And now we have government support like we have never had; and programs and grants such as ADO, Podium, LaLiga… And an intrinsic winning gene, in addition to the most valued and recognized athletes in the world. I see a spirit in the Spanish athlete like I have never seen before. Young people believe it and trust blindly in his possibilities; They firmly believe that they are going to go to the games for medals”.