Jean-Paul Bell Announced as Olympic Programme Coach

British Judo is delighted to announce the appointment of Jean-Paul “JP” Bell as its new Olympic Programme Coach, a pivotal role within the World Class Performance Programme (WCPP).

With a distinguished track record as a high‑performance coach, Bell returns to British Judo after a spell with the National Judo Federation of Netherlands, and brings extensive experience across multiple Olympic cycles—including London 2012, Rio 2016, Tokyo 2020, and Paris 2024—where he has guided athletes to peak performance on judo’s biggest stage.

As Olympic Programme Coach, Bell will help deliver British Judo’s WCPP for Olympic athletes, supporting the development of medal-winning athletes on the world stage.

Commenting on the appointment, Performance Director Kate Howey MBE said:

“JP will bring exceptional experience and vision to the WCPP. He will be instrumental in driving our athletes toward podium performances in the next Olympic cycle and I’m delighted to welcome him back onto the team.”

Bell added:

“I’m incredibly proud to have been appointed as the Olympic Programme Coach for Great Britain. Representing my country at this level and having the opportunity to help shape the journey of our elite judoka on the world’s biggest stage is a responsibility I do not take lightly.”

“To the athletes, coaches and the wider judo community — I’m excited to work alongside you as we pursue success, not just in medals, but in spirit and performance.”

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