Sébastien Flute will leave his role at the World Archery Excellence Centre at the end of 2025, having spent the year as its head of operations.
The Barcelona 1992 Olympic Champion joined to manage the facility after successfully delivering the archery events at the most recent Olympic Games in Paris (France). He leaves to return to work in mega events, including the upcoming Dakar Rally.
“It has been a privilege to work alongside the dedicated, talented, and professional team at the World Archery Excellence Centre this past year,” said Flute.
“While I am keen to return to the major event environment, I wish them all the best and look forward to returning, now as a visitor, in the future.”
The World Archery Excellence Centre had its busiest year in 2025, with a revamped activity schedule attracting more than 10,000 newcomers to the sport.
The facility also hosted the Swiss Open, the World Archery Coaching Conference, and several national teams for training camps in the lead-up to the Hyundai World Archery Championships in Gwangju (Korea).
“We are very grateful for Sébastien’s contribution to the growth of the World Archery Excellence Centre over the past year,” said World Archery President Greg Easton. “We wish him all the best as he returns his expertise to large-scale event operations.”
The World Archery Excellence Centre opened its doors in 2016 as a hub for the sport’s international development and elite training facility.
“I’ve admired Sébastien since our paths crossed at Barcelona, and it was an honour to collaborate with such a talented professional and good friend,” said World Archery Executive Director Juan Carlos Holgado, who was a team gold medallist at the 1992 Olympics, where Flute took the individual title.
“Although the timing isn’t perfect – he’s finishing his role as I’m just starting – I’m thrilled to see him pursue his passion in car rallying and complex sports events.”
“I wish him all the best and look forward to crossing paths again, hopefully in archery. Hasta pronto. Sébastien, we will miss you.”
Management of the World Archery Excellence Centre will now fall under the responsibility of World Archery’s newly appointed head of development and education, Siret Luik.
