Disabled and able-bodied athletes sharing the track in Glasgow

The XV de France was not alone in Scotland at the beginning of August. Just a few miles from the Murrayfield Stadium, other athletes flew the colours of the French flag.

Medals in full swing

With 14 medals in total (7 gold, 2 silver and 5 bronze), the French para-cycling team monopolised the podiums in the Glasgow velodrome and confirmed its position as a major nation in the discipline. Only England did better, with 30 medals.

On the road side, they also had a good pedal stroke. Ranked second among all nations with 6 gold, 7 silver and 10 bronze medals, the delegation moved up 3 places on last year's performance.

After 12 days of competition – from August 2 to 13, the French para-cycling team won 37 medals and dressed in 15 rainbow jerseys*!

At the world cycling championships, disabled athletes win

This year: no difference! The same passion, the same track, the same audience. As the events unfolded at full speed, disabled athletes and able-bodied residents alternated between the floor and the road. This approach to organisation put all athletes on an equal footing and allowed everyone to enjoy the venues, atmosphere and media coverage in the same way.

This kind of initiative – which is greatly welcomed by Societe Generale – attests to an organisational model that is gradually emerging in the world of sports. A partner of the French Disabled Sports Federation (FFH) for 20 years, we are delighted with our Bleus’ success at these world championships, and glad to see disabled sports playing an ever-increasing role in major international events.

*The most prestigious jersey for a cyclist, it is awarded to the winner at the World Championships, in addition to the gold medal. The champion will wear it for one year at all future competitions in their discipline.

© Photo credit: FFH