Teddy Riner announced his 2027 presidential candidacy in France on Monday, stating he wants to prevent an extreme-right victory in the upcoming election.
Olympic Champion Enters French Politics
The five-time Olympic judo champion released a video on social media confirming his presidential bid to succeed centrist Emmanuel Macron. French voters head to the polls in two rounds scheduled for April 18 and May 2.
“Me llamo Teddy Riner y hoy, mirándolos directamente a los ojos, les digo que soy candidato a la elección presidencial,” Riner stated in his campaign video.
At 37 years old, the athlete stands 2.03 meters tall and weighs approximately 140 kilograms. Born on the Caribbean island of Guadeloupe, he remains one of France’s most prominent sports figures and helped light the Olympic cauldron at the Paris 2024 Games.
Stakes in the 2027 French Election
Riner enters a political environment where far-right leader Marine Le Pen leads early opinion polls. Macron cannot seek a third term under constitutional rules.
“El único riesgo que veo hoy es estar resignados a elegir entre dos opciones, las de los extremos,” Riner said, positioning himself outside traditional left-right politics.
President Emmanuel Macron welcomed the surprise announcement, stating that the champion’s decision to join the presidential debate and bring his convictions would benefit the country. Meanwhile, pollster Erwan Lestrohan of Odoxa noted that Riner’s high popularity might not immediately translate into electoral capital because his policy platform remains a blank slate.
Riner Cites Debt and State Authority in Announcement
In his announcement, Riner pointed to national debt concerns and everyday struggles faced by families buying groceries. He also criticized the perceived erosion of state authority against criminals and administrative burdens affecting young citizens.
His political team stated that an expert-drafted program is already complete. However, Riner must first secure 500 official endorsements from mayors, lawmakers, and elected officials to officially appear on the ballot.
Riner Maintains Athletic Goals for Los Angeles 2028
Despite entering presidential politics, Riner has not abandoned his athletic career. The judoka holds three individual heavyweight Olympic titles from 2012, 2016, and 2024, alongside team gold medals from 2020 and 2024.
He maintains his goal of winning a fourth individual gold medal at the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics, adding that he will pursue it “si el cargo me lo permite y si los franceses me lo autorizan.”
Earlier coverage: Olympic Judo Champion Teddy Riner Announces 2027 French Presidential Bid
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