“We have to realise what it represents”: after thirty years on the bench, Patrice Canayer on a completely different terrain

Deux Ligues des champions et quatorze titres de champion de France en trois décennies en tant qu’entraîneur du Montpellier-Handball. Midi Libre – Michael Esdourrubailh

ILS ONT TOURNE LA PAGE EN 2024. Patrice Canayer, entraîneur et manager général emblématique du Montpellier-Handball, se consacre aujourd’hui à son mandat de conseiller régional, où il reste en première ligne.

More than all the world champions and Olympic champions he has accompanied, Patrice Canayer embodies Montpellier-Handball. Sometimes not without problems, but with unrivaled success and an XXL track record, one of the finest in French sport, including two Champions Leagues, 14 French championship titles and 13 French Cups.

200% Deposit Bonus up to €3,000 180% First Deposit Bonus up to $20,000

“The decision has had time to mature”

“I was a coach for 36 years, appreciates the person concerned. I was lucky enough to experience the beginnings of PSG, Canal Plus version, and then I spent thirty years in Montpellier, including 29 with the European Cup, or two matches per week. In addition, twenty years as general manager, with 40 employees, 200 licensees and 800 partners. You have to realize what that represents. But I don’t regret anything, it was exciting.” And then came the summer break 2023…“I was coming to the end of my contract, the management had kindly offered me a new contract, but what sense did it make after thirty years ? For me but also for Montpellier-Handball ? The decision had time to mature. And when I came back after the summer, I announced it to the management, it was well understood.”

The French team ? “I didn't feel a real desire to work with me”

Patrice Canayer was honored at his true worth in many halls dedicated to handball throughout France. He also appreciates the requests he received after announcing his intention to leave the bench. The French team ? If it was discussed, he sees it more as a political aspect but “no real desire to work with me. I don't really see it as an opportunity. On the other hand, I was approached by the biggest clubs. Discovering them, discovering a new culture, that could have been great.”

But there you go, Patrice Canayer already had another project in mind, not devoid of ambition. On the political front this time. As an elected official since he had won the right to sit on the regional council at the polls.

“I really enjoy it “

“I am the delegate for the attractiveness and influence of Occitanie. This affects the economy, sport, tourism, culture… and everything that involves promoting our region, including the Sud de France and Made in Occitanie brands. I am with a great team and I really enjoy it.”

With a final confession: “I'm not saying that I won't return to sport and handball in particular, but it's not on the agenda. But if one day I miss it too much, why not? not.”

I subscribe to read the rest