Teddy Riner, the 37-year-old five-time Olympic gold medalist in judo, announced on Monday via a social media video that he will run in the 2027 presidential election. Riner, one of France's best-known sports figures, stated that he intends to lift up France. President Emmanuel Macron welcomed the news of the elite athlete's bid.
Positioning himself as a candidate of unity, Riner described himself as neither rightwing nor leftwing and expressed a desire to bring people together. The announcement follows Riner's expressed concerns regarding the rise of the far right and his fear that France could soon become deeply divided. He seeks to appeal to voters who are unwilling to choose between political extremes.
The presidential race to replace Emmanuel Macron has been shaping up as a showdown between the radical-left leader Jean-Luc Mélenchon and National Rally leader Marine Le Pen, with polls suggesting a hollowing out of the political centre. Riner, who stated that fighting has always been a part of who he is, noted that he would try to compete in the 2028 Games as president. However, some tax-related questions could potentially hinder the start of his campaign.