An Unexpected Bid for the Élysée
Teddy Riner is stepping off the tatami and aiming for the presidency. The 37-year-old judo champion has launched an unexpected bid for the Élysée Palace, instantly drawing sharp divisions across France’s political establishment.
Former French Prime Minister Dominique de Villepin welcomed the candidacy, describing the athlete as an experienced figure whose voice carries influence.
“It happens that I know Teddy Riner well, and that I like him very much,” Villepin said during a press conference for international media, adding that the judoka’s career inspires universal admiration.
Building a Broad Coalition
Villepin argued that civil society figures have grown detached from electoral campaigns in recent decades, pointing specifically to the cultural and arts sectors. He called for a broad coalition of voices to participate in the 2027 race rather than fighting separate battles.
President Emmanuel Macron also addressed the announcement during an appearance on France 5, expressing happiness that a major champion like Riner decided to engage in the presidential debate with his convictions, ideas, and talent.
Other political figures offered varied assessments of the surprise run. Former Prime Minister Edouard Philippe adopted a benevolent tone, calling Riner an admirable and heavyweight candidate in a nod to the athlete’s physical stature and record.
Warnings from the Political Arena
Not everyone welcomed the transition from sports to national politics. Former Olympic champion and sports minister Jean-François Lamour warned that a presidential campaign represents the most violent political competition, far removed from the environment of the tatami mats.
The harshest public criticism came from Guy Drut. The 110-meter hurdles champion, former deputy, and International Olympic Committee member labeled the candidacy ridiculous.
Meanwhile, sports administrators adopted a more neutral stance. Amélie Oudéa-Castéra, president of the French National Olympic and Sports Committee, noted on RMC Sport that while the announcement came as a surprise, athletes remain completely free to choose their engagements.
The Road to 2027
Presenting himself as neither right nor left, Riner aims to be a unifying president. Yet he now faces the immediate challenge of organizing a formal political platform and securing the 500 required endorsements to validate his run for the Élysée Palace.
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