Róbert Julian Duranona: An Icelandic Handball Legend’s Journey
Róbert Julian Duranona is a name that resonates deeply with Icelandic sports enthusiasts. Known for his remarkable handball career, Duranona left an indelible mark on Iceland’s sports scene with his size 51 shoes. Currently residing in Cuba, where he manages a hotel, Duranona remains fondly remembered in Iceland. Despite his distance from the sport, he holds a strong belief in Iceland’s potential in the Handball World Championship (HM).
Fond Memories of Iceland
In a recent interview with RÚV, Duranona expressed his lasting affection for Iceland, describing his time there as the best period of his career. “I love many people in Iceland. I have many friends there, and I love all the players of the Icelandic national team,” he stated warmly. He fondly remembers Ólafur Stefánsson and considers Iceland his second home, despite being born in Cuba. “Iceland is like my house. I was born in Cuba, but I consider my second home to be Iceland. I love it, I love it, I love it,” Duranona emphasized.
From Handball Stardom to Hotelier
Duranona’s transition from a celebrated handball player to a hotelier in Cuba marks a significant shift in his life. His illustrious career in Europe spanned two decades, with notable performances, such as his 12 goals from 15 shots against Macedonia in 1999. However, following his retirement, Duranona has distanced himself from the sport. “The problem is, I haven’t played handball for 15 years. I forget about it because I live in Cuba now,” he explained, citing political reasons for his detachment from Cuban handball.
Challenges of Returning to Iceland
Despite his love for Iceland, Duranona acknowledges the financial challenges of visiting. “The problem is that Iceland is very, very expensive for me,” he admitted. Nevertheless, he remains open to the possibility of returning, particularly if an opportunity in handball coaching presents itself. “I could come back if someone offers me a contract, maybe to coach or something like that,” he hinted.
A Family Connection to Iceland
Duranona’s ties to Iceland extend beyond his personal experiences, as his family also has connections to the country. His brother’s sons, Julius and Joel Duranona, play basketball for ÍA and have represented Iceland in youth national teams. This familial bond reinforces his sentimental connection to Iceland, a place where he has left a lasting legacy.
Can Iceland Triumph in the World Championship?
While Duranona admits he doesn’t keep up with handball as much these days, he remains hopeful for Iceland’s success in the World Championship. “World champions? I don’t know. Maybe. For many years, the Icelandic national team was very, very, very good. I haven’t seen them play recently,” he confessed. Yet, his support is unwavering, as he proudly displays the Icelandic flag on his wall at home in Cuba.
Reflecting on a Remarkable Career
Duranona’s story is a compelling narrative of sports excellence and personal transformation. From his days as a handball star in Iceland to managing a hotel in Cuba, his journey is a testament to his enduring spirit and deep-rooted passion for Iceland. His reflections on his career and affection for Iceland paint a vivid picture of a man who cherishes his past while embracing his present.
In conclusion, Róbert Julian Duranona’s story is not just about his achievements in handball but also about the profound connections he forged in Iceland. His legacy continues to inspire sports fans, and his love for Iceland remains as strong as ever.