Just days before the Paris Olympic Test Event, which acts as a cornerstone for so many national federation selection policies for the 2024 Paris Olympic Games, Joel Filliol has parted ways with Triathlon Australia, where he served as the Olympic Program Head Coach.

Well known for coaching world champions such as Mario Mola, Vincent Luis and Katie Zaferes, Filliol’s move away from the federation comes at a crucial stage of the Olympic cycle.

For Filliol himself, the break means he can go back to fully focusing on his Joel Filliol Training group (The JFT Crew) and help his athletes, including French home favourite Luis and returning Olympic medalist Zaferes, chase their goals of Olympic gold.

“I have no regrets and would not change a thing”

Sharing on his Instagram page some thoughts after his departure, the Canadian revealed he had no regrets over his time in charge Down Under – and said is now excited to be back with his elite team.

“Reflecting on my final few days with Triathlon Australia – While the timing is is finishing sooner than anticipated, and the experience was not as expected, I have no regrets, and would not change a thing. It’s been an adventure for my family in Australia, and we will enjoy the remainder of our time down under before returning to our home in Scotland. 

Filliol on the future

“I am delighted to be free to resume my work in the best way I know how, that has supported so many amazing people and performances over the last 20 + years of my career.

“I am filled with gratitude for the opportunity to get back to work with my #JFTcrew, with a big push to Paris next year and beyond. Special thanks to Drew Box for supporting the squad while I’ve been in Australia, and looking forward to resuming normal service next week.”

Filiol had previously worked with a number of other federations, including Triathlon Canada, British Triathlon and the Italian Triathlon Federation.