Five-time Olympic judo gold medalist Teddy Riner announced Monday, November 9, that he will run for president of France in 2027, entering an increasingly crowded political contest with a campaign focused on national unity, social justice and restoring public confidence in the country’s future.
The 37-year-old athlete announced his candidacy in an interview with Le Parisien and a video posted on social media, presenting himself as an alternative to France’s established political parties. Riner, one of the country’s most recognizable sports figures, declared that he belonged neither to the right nor the left and wanted to bring together a society divided by political and economic tensions.
Riner cited rising public debt, household financial pressures and inequality among the reasons for his decision. His campaign slogan, “The France We Want,” emphasizes stability, opportunity and national cohesion. Although he has not previously held elected office, Riner said he had assembled a team of approximately 20 advisers, including civil society representatives, public officials and a former minister, to help develop his political platform.
Macron welcomes candidacy as French media examine political ambitions
President Emmanuel Macron welcomed Riner’s announcement during an appearance Monday on France 5’s television program “C à vous”, saying he was pleased that a prominent Olympic champion had decided to contribute his ideas and experience to the presidential debate.
As reported by Le Parisien and AFP, Macron described Riner’s participation as a positive development for the country. Macron himself cannot seek a third consecutive presidential term under the French Constitution.
French media have nevertheless highlighted the challenges facing Riner. Le Parisien noted that his popularity as an athlete does not necessarily translate into electoral support, while his political program remains in its early stages. His initial proposals include combating discrimination, addressing retirement-system financing and improving opportunities for younger generations.
Riner has previously expressed concern about the growing influence of France’s far right, comments that prompted racist attacks against him on social media. Born in Guadeloupe and raised in Paris, he has frequently spoken about the opportunities provided by France while emphasizing the need to address discrimination and social divisions.
To qualify for the presidential ballot, he must secure endorsements from at least 500 elected officials, a requirement that presents an organizational challenge for candidates without established political parties.
Olympic ambitions continue alongside presidential campaign
Riner’s political announcement comes after an extraordinary sporting career that includes five Olympic gold medals and numerous world championship titles. At the 2024 Paris Olympics, he won gold in the men’s heavyweight category and helped France capture the mixed-team title, becoming one of the defining figures of the Games.
Despite launching his presidential campaign, Riner has not abandoned his ambition to compete at the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. He said he would consider continuing his athletic career if his presidential responsibilities permitted it and the French public accepted the arrangement.
His announcement adds another prominent name to a presidential contest already attracting candidates from across France’s political spectrum, including figures associated with the National Rally, the traditional right, the political center and the left.
The election is scheduled for April and May 2027. Riner’s immediate priorities include gathering the necessary endorsements, establishing a nationwide campaign organization and presenting a detailed political program to voters.
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