The year 2024 was marked by exceptional sporting performances in Nord Pas-de-Calais, illustrating the vitality and dynamism of the region in Football with LOSC and RC Lens, in cycling with the regional pro teams Decathlon AG2R La World, Cofidis and Van Rysel Roubaix, in Basketball with the “Guerrières” of ESBVA-LM, in Water Polo with the girls of LUC or even in car rally with driver Adrien Fourmaux, 5th in the world rally championship.
These highlights of the year 2024 illustrate the diversity and richness of the sporting landscape in our region which continues to produce talent and host world-renowned events, the highlight of which this year was the Paris 2024 Olympic Games with the Basketball and Handball tournaments at the Pierre Mauroy stadium in Villeneuve d'Ascq, but also the final of the French Football Cup.
Our Top 5 for 2024 in the region
Football: LOSC and its European journey
4th in Ligue 1 at the end of the 2023-2024 season, LOSC, now coached by Bruno Génésio, went through the qualifying round and the play-offs to join the prestigious Champions League 24-25. After a failed debut in Lisbon, LOSC achieved a first memorable feat by winning against Real Madrid, one of the most prestigious clubs in Europe and the reigning champion. This historic victory not only strengthened LOSC's reputation on the international scene, but also aroused immense pride among Lille supporters. LOSC then continued by winning on the pitch of Atletico Madrid, Antoine Griezmann's club. With 4 victories (Real Madrid, Atletico Madrid, Bologna, Sturm Graz), a draw against Juventus and a defeat (Sporting Portugal), LOSC is even before the end of this League phase qualified at least for the play-offs (16th final).
Women's basketball: ESBVA at the top of Europe
The Entente Sportive Basket de Villeneuve d'Ascq (ESBVA), nicknamed the “Guerrières”, had an exceptional season by winning the French championship. This recognition testifies to the hard work and determination of the players and staff, placing the ESBVA among the great European teams in women's basketball. Rachid Meziane's girls also reached the final of the Women's Euroleague in Türkiye (106-73 defeat) but were European Vice-Champions against the Turks of Fenerbahçe.
Motorcycle: the Enduropale du Touquet breaks records
The Enduropale du Touquet, an emblematic race for motorcycles and quads on sand, saw record attendance in 2024. This massive enthusiasm confirms the growing popularity of the Côte d'Opale event, which attracts pilots and fans from around the world. entire. English rider Todd Kellett scored a second consecutive victory in the most legendary sand motorcycle race.
Paris 2024 Olympic Games: the Pierre Mauroy Stadium at the heart of the game
On the occasion of the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, the Stade Pierre Mauroy in Villeneuve d'Ascq hosted the men's and women's basketball tournaments (qualifying phase) and handball tournaments (final phase). In a crazy atmosphere, the French teams benefited from the fervent support of the northern public but also from all over the world, creating an electric and unforgettable atmosphere. A great moment of sport and joy.
Waterpolo: And 10 for Lille
Less publicized than other sports, waterpolo nonetheless remains a discipline that is popular in the North with the high-level performances of the Lille LUC team chaired by Thierry Landon. By winning a 10th title as French champions, the LUC girls are at the top level of the discipline and are now aiming for an 11th national title and better days on the European scene.
Photos Laurent SANSON, Fred VDB, Pierre WILLEMETZ, Eric MORELLE and DR
