France’s last European competition of the year ended on a triumphant note for baseball5. Four years after their first continental title, the Blues have regained the top spot, winning their second European Championship title after a dazzling run.
Baseball5, an urban, mixed, and highly dynamic discipline, has not yet blown out its tenth candle, but it has already offered some great pages to French sports. Beaten in the previous edition by Lithuania — a nation that has made this flash sport a real specialty — the French were thirsty for revenge. And destiny smiled on them!
This time, the Lithuanians came up against a solid Spanish team in the semifinals, losing in three sets. The way was clear for an explosive final between France and Spain.
The players of Lahcène Benhamida did not tremble. In full control, focused and conquering, they unfolded their game to impose themselves with authority. No conceded innings over seven matches: a perfect run, a major flawless performance.
In the spotlight, the heroes of this triumph: Flavien Hasslauer, Omar Diodene Pacheco, Lucas Dedieu, Ambre Brouard, Lila d’Hauteville, Nathan Crégut, Jade Aubard Cojan and Léna Sellam. Together, they perfectly embody the spirit of baseball5: mixity, energy, and cohesion.
France can now savor this resounding victory and look to the future with ambition. Heading towards the 2026 World Championships, where this united and inspired team will aim for new exploits.
Captain Omar Diodène shares his feelings with us:
« Our team was a bit under construction, we managed to weld the group especially during the first day of competition. Then the level increased a lot from the playoffs. Each of my teammates is different and has a distinct way of being on the field and on the bench, but we managed to find harmony when it was needed. It’s a great joy to lift the cup again. »
Stephen Lesfargues, the national technical director who serves as a coach alongside manager Benhamida, also shares his impressions with us:
« I first want to say that the France baseball5 team achieved a feat by winning their second European Championship title without conceding any sets to our opponents. The players demonstrated exceptional determination and talent during the semifinals and finals, where we faced Turkey and Spain, illustrating our collective strength and cohesion.
From the start of the tournament, the team showed solid play, winning all their matches. I insist on this, but each member contributed to this collective success, showing unwavering commitment. This title goes beyond a simple victory; it embodies the work and preparation of the players, the players, and the staff.
This victory also sends a strong message to other nations: the team is ready to assert itself and return to the world stage. With this success, it also secures its ticket to the Baseball5 World Cup scheduled for next year, a goal that motivates the players even more to surpass themselves in the coming months.
I extend special thanks to the players present in Lithuania for their superb performance and the first continental title for some of our athletes, with a special thought for our captain Omar. I also don’t forget those who train to join the France collective. The development of baseball5 must continue, with the ambition of playing with passion everywhere in France.
Finally, a big thank you to the elected officials, coaches, club managers, parents, friends, and enthusiasts who supported the team throughout the tournament, with a special mention to Simon who will recognize himself.
The team is determined to defend its colors and aim for new successes. Congratulations to all for this European Championship title, and see you at the World Cup in 2026! »
Photo credits: Glenn Gervot
