Teddy Riner Enters French Presidential Race
»Ich habe beschlossen, mich an der Seite der Französinnen und Franzosen zu engagieren und deshalb für das Amt des Präsidenten der Republik zu kandidieren«, said five-time Olympic champion Teddy Riner in an interview with Le Parisien, announcing his run in the spring presidential election.
The 37-year-old judo star declared that he is not just an athlete, stating he refuses to be reduced to a champion who merely steps onto the podium while remaining silent on everything else, Le Parisien reported.
Protests Spark Political Ambition
Autumn social protests across France drove Riner toward his candidacy, fueled by public anger, anxiety, and a feeling that nobody is listening to the population. In France, great social protests have been taking place for weeks.
Riner stated he does not belong to the left or right political camp. Instead, he is addressing all French citizens, including the youth, non-voters, and anyone who wants to dream big.
Athletic Career and Los Angeles 2028
The heavyweight fighter stands well over two meters tall and brushed off concerns about the brutal nature of political campaigns. »Aber Schläge einzustecken, das ist, wissen Sie, mein Beruf«, Riner said, noting that taking hits is his job and he has no fear of the contest.
Even if elected president, Riner intends to compete at the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles, provided the office permits it and the French people grant him permission to do so.
Macron Welcomes the Challenge
French President Emmanuel Macron appeared on the broadcast C à vous and expressed enthusiasm about the athlete joining the political arena. Macron stated he is very happy that a major champion like Riner has decided to contribute ideas to the presidential debate, adding that it can only benefit the country.
Potential candidates must be French citizens of legal age who have fulfilled civil or military duties, followed by securing 500 signatures from elected officials alongside asset and interest disclosures. Riner remarked that such requirements should not serve as hurdles in a democracy.
Candidate Launches Campaign and Seeks 500 Endorsements
The candidate has rolled out his campaign website under the slogan »Das Frankreich, das wir wollen«, according to Le Parisien. Collecting the necessary 500 endorsements from elected representatives remains the primary procedural threshold to secure a spot on the official spring ballot.
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