The Argentine delegation that traveled to Paris to participate in the Olympic Games, starting on Friday the 26th, consists of 136 athletes aiming to increase the nation’s medal tally. Currently, Argentina holds 77 medals: 21 gold, 26 silver, and 30 bronze. Below are some athletes to watch during the competitions.
Julián Álvarez, soccer. Fresh off a Copa América victory, “The Spider” is a standout in the Argentine soccer team that bolsters the Under-23 squad. In addition to Julián, the two other players over 23 included in the Olympic roster also featured in Qatar: goalkeeper Gerónimo Rulli and defender Nicolás Otamendi. The team debuts against Morocco on Wednesday the 24th at 15:00 (10:00 local time).
Los Pumas Sevens, rugby. They are strong contenders for the podium after a historic season for their category. They secured the top spot in the overall classification of Rugby Sevens 2023/24 and reached the final in the HSBC SVNS Grand Final held in Madrid. The competition will take place on the 24th, 25th, and 27th of July.
Rocío Sánchez Moccia, field hockey. At 35, she is the captain and a key figure of Las Leonas. She has participated in three Olympic Games, winning silver medals in London 2012 and Tokyo 2020. In Paris 2024, she will be Argentina’s flag bearer. Las Leonas begin their campaign on Saturday the 27th at 19:45 against the United States.
Francisco Cerúndolo, tennis. He has made significant strides in the international circuit. With an aggressive playing style, the highest-ranked Argentine in the ATP rankings has proven to be a serious competitor in high-level tournaments. The first round of tennis will be between Saturday the 27th and Sunday.
Mateo Majdalani and Eugenia Bosco, sailing. This duo has potential for a medal. Their excellent performance at the Pan American Games in Santiago 2023, where they dominated their category, encourages optimism. The regattas are scheduled for Saturday the 3rd and Wednesday the 7th of August.
Agustín Vernice, canoeing. He aims to surpass his last performance in Tokyo 2020, where he earned an Olympic diploma. Swimmer Macarena Ceballos is also targeting a final in the 100m breaststroke. Vernice will compete on Wednesday the 7th of August, and Ceballos on Sunday the 28th at 11:00.
Luciano de Cecco, volleyball. The captain of the national team is another athlete to keep an eye on. He has competed in three Olympic Games, winning a historic bronze medal in Tokyo 2020. The team debuts on Saturday the 27th at 21:00 against the United States.
Diego Simonet, handball. Known as “El Chino,” he is the heart and soul of the handball team. His experience and leadership on the court are invaluable, making him a crucial player for the national team.
