Juan Miguel Postigos: the Peruvian flag bearer at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games

On July 28th, during the celebration of Peru's Independence Day, judoka Juan Miguel Postigos will compete in the 2024 Paris Olympics, representing his country as the flag bearer. This honor falls on his shoulders in his fourth Olympic participation, making him one of the few Peruvians to achieve this distinction. Postigos, who resides in Paris and works in train maintenance, has dedicated a significant part of his life to sports and now aims to conclude his professional career with a medal. Postigos' journey towards Olympic qualification was not easy. It began somewhat casually in 2022, accumulating points in competitions such as the Pan American Games in Lima and the World Masters. A combination of factors, including support from his job that allowed him to adjust his days off to his sports schedule, motivated him to focus on qualifying for the 2024 Paris Olympics. The Peruvian judoka emphasizes the importance of the support he has received at work to balance his professional and sports life. He affirms that balancing his time between work, training, and personal life has been a challenge, but the effort has been worthwhile. Postigos highlights the tranquility he finds in Paris for living and training, expressing gratitude for the backing of his bosses and colleagues in his sports project. Despite living outside his country for over a decade, Postigos maintains a strong connection with Peru and takes pride in representing it in every competition. His job as a train maintenance agent has provided him with economic stability, something he particularly values given the decrease in state support for sports in his home country. Being the flag bearer at the Olympics is an honor for Postigos, who acknowledges the responsibility that comes with carrying his nation's flag at such a globally significant event. His competition, scheduled for July 28th, will coincide with Peru's Independence Day, adding a special meaning to his participation in the sports event. Despite his achievements and the recognition gained as the flag bearer, Postigos remains focused on his main goal: winning an Olympic medal. He acknowledges that the journey has not been easy and that the constant support from his surroundings has been crucial in getting him to where he is now. Postigos hopes that his example will inspire future generations of Peruvian athletes. After the 2024 Paris Olympics, Postigos plans to retire from competitive judo. Although he rules out participating in the 2027 Lima Games, he does not close the door to future projects related to sports, such as collaborating with the federation to promote the training of new talents and the development of judo in Peru. In a context where Peruvian sports face challenges due to the lack of continuity in sports policies and changes in the Peruvian Sports Institute, Juan Miguel Postigos stands as an example of overcoming obstacles and dedication. His sports career, marked by effort and passion for his discipline, leaves a legacy that he hopes will be embraced by the new generations of Peruvian athletes.