Teddy Riner announced on November 9 that he will run in the 2027 French presidential election.
Campaign Video Announcement
The 37-year-old judo legend made his intentions public through a video published on social media and an exclusive interview with Le Parisien, according to local reports.
I am Teddy Riner, and today I am telling you face-to-face that I will run in the presidential election of 2027,
Riner stated in a 2-minute, 37-second campaign video.
Riner stated he could not accept the deepening divisions in French society and aimed to unite citizens from different viewpoints. He chose The France We Want
as his campaign slogan while maintaining he belongs to neither the right nor the left wing.
Riner Aims for 2028 Olympics Despite Political Campaign
Riner holds 11 world championship titles and five Olympic gold medals, winning the men’s over-100kg division at the London 2012, Rio 2016, and Paris 2024 Games alongside two mixed team golds.
Despite launching a political campaign, Riner does not plan to end his athletic career. When Le Parisien asked if running for office meant abandoning the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, Riner replied, If my duties allow it, and if the French people agree, I will not give it up.
He previously targeted the Los Angeles Games but faced setbacks this year when a right shoulder injury sustained in training forced him to withdraw from multiple events, including the world championships in October.
Requirements and Official Reactions
French President Emmanuel Macron addressed the announcement on the evening of November 9, stating he welcomed such a great champion participating in the presidential election debate and bringing his own ideas and experience.
Candidates face a formal threshold before appearing on the ballot. French presidential election rules require aspirants to secure at least 500 signatures from eligible elected officials to enter the official candidate list.
The first round of the 2027 French presidential election is scheduled for April 18, with a potential second-round runoff set for May 2.
Earlier coverage: Olympic Judo Champion Teddy Riner Announces 2027 French Presidential Bid
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