Javier Gómez Noya and Mario Mola take on new roles in the Spanish Triathlon Federation
The Spanish Triathlon Federation (FETRI) has taken a decisive step in its technical structure with the incorporation of two legends of Spanish triathlon: Javier Gómez Noya, the only five-time world champion in the history of this sport, and Mario Mola, triathlete who has won three world championships.
These additions aim to strengthen the development of triathlon in Spain, bringing the experience and leadership of two of the best triathletes in the world to guide the new generations.
The announcement was made yesterday at an event at the Higher Sports Council, where both athletes expressed their enthusiasm and optimism for the upcoming international challenges.
New responsibilities and roles
Javier Gómez Noya, 41, will take on the role of technical director of “Team Spain”, a new project that aims to guide Spanish triathletes on their path to international competitions, including the Olympic Games in Los Angeles 2028 and Brisbane 2032.
Gómez Noya's experience, which includes a remarkable career with world titles and a silver medal at the London 2012 Olympic Games, will be key for the young talents of Spanish triathlon, as he will work directly with them through specialized training programs and mentoring activities, helping them develop technical skills and a winning mentality.
“I understand this sport well and I have the humility to surround myself with a great team that is already in the federation,” said Gómez Noya during the event.
For its part, Mario Mola, 34 years old and with a track record that includes seven medals in world championships, will serve as technical advisor to the president of FETRI, José Hidalgo.
Mola stressed the importance of building a solid foundation for athletes, stating that “the current generation has great potential and can give us a lot of joy.” His focus will be on helping athletes manage their performance and growth in the competitive field of triathlon.
Performance Outlook and Expectations
Gómez Noya and Mola, in conversations with EFE, were clear about the reality of competing at the highest level. “It is not normal to win eight World Cups in ten years, and you cannot expect that.
But there is confidence in today's athletes," said Gómez Noya, referring to the results in world competitions where Spanish athletes have consistently been in the top 10.
His gaze is set on the future, especially on the Olympic Games, where the Spanish team has already demonstrated its ability by obtaining diplomas and prominent positions in recent competitions.
Mola shared this perspective, indicating that it is crucial to be patient with new talents. “We must understand that we are living in a more 'normal' era compared to the one we enjoyed years ago,” he said.
Both athletes seem determined not only to pass on their knowledge, but to cultivate a culture of high performance sustained by hard work and dedication, through specific motivational activities, such as workshops and inspirational talks, as well as training practices focused on overcoming personal limits.
Creating a legacy in Spanish triathlon
The main goal of these new additions is not only to enhance the performance of current triathletes, but also to forge a clear path for future generations.
Both legends of the sport have pledged to share their vast experience accumulated “in more than twenty years of high performance”, which will undoubtedly enrich the team’s preparation and mentality.
Gómez Noya explained that his task will focus on working with a group of young talents, helping them to maximize their potential.
"I want to convey the philosophy of effort and what is needed to achieve maximum sporting performance," he said. Mola, in his role as advisor, will seek to carry out work adapted to the reality of athletes, fostering a mentality in which each victory and defeat is part of learning.
Promoting triathlon in Spain
With the arrival of Javier Gómez Noya y Mario Mola The FETRI structure is opening a new stage that promises not only to boost the performance of elite athletes, but also to increase visibility and interest in triathlon in Spain.
This type of initiative is essential to ensure that Spanish triathlon maintains its position as one of the world powers in this sport.
Expectations are high, both at a sporting and organisational level, and fans and athletes hope that this partnership of legends will help rejuvenate interest and success in Spanish triathlon. With the experience of these champions at the service of the team, the future looks like an exciting and promising challenge.
