Mickael Pignolo

Mickael Pignolo will carry the Olympic torch. This is his story:

Mickael Pignolo is the living embodiment of Olympic values such as friendship, respect and excellence, which have fuelled his rise in the world of sports in general and kickboxing in particular. These core tenets have been his guiding mantra throughout his career and helped him conquer the French national Junior, semi-pro and pro championships, as well as earning him a spot representing France in the WAKO World Cup. He has also claimed two European kickboxing championships and a gold medal in the Full Contact World Cup.

The challenges involved in these top-tier competitions have not dampened Mickael's commitment to friendship and respect, which encouraged him to take a step forward and promote his home town of Arles. He has been volunteering with the Association Arlésienne de Kickboxing, founded by his father, since age 15. His participation in local events such as the "Nuit du Fight" has shined a spotlight on his town and its sporting scene, and he has also shared his passion and sporting values with young people in Arles. For Mickael, carrying the Olympic torch is "a childhood dream" come true, following in the footsteps of the boxing all-time great Muhammad Ali.