Laurine Defosses

Laurine Defosses will carry the Olympic Torch. This is her story:

Laurine embodies commitment in everything she does. Despite having a completely paralysed right brachial plexus, she is a para-sport swimmer registered on French Ministry of Sport’s list of elite sportspersons. She excelled with the runner-up position in the French championships on several occasions in a range of swimming events such as the 100 metres breaststroke and the 100 metres butterfly races.

Her disability has never been an obstacle to her achievements; on the contrary, it has strengthened her character as a fighter and competitor. Laurine had the honour of representing France in 2022 during the Gymnasiades, the world championships for senior high school pupils, in which France hosted three disabled sports for the first time, including para-swimming. She distinguished herself by winning a medal in the 50 metres backstroke race during this historical event.

For Laurine, becoming an Olympic Torchbearer is an immense source of pride. She sees it as a unique opportunity to represent France's youth and para-sport athletes, while sharing a message of determination and inspiration with the whole world.