Wendie Renard Denounces AI-Generated Deepfake Video Circulating Online

OL Lyon captain Wendie Renard has publicly denounced a fraudulent deepfake video circulating on social media that falsely depicts her promoting an artificial intelligence investment scheme. The French international defender issued a strong statement on her official X and Instagram accounts on Monday, April 20, 2026, condemning the unauthorized utilize of her image and voice generated through artificial intelligence.

According to Renard’s post, the video falsely claims she launched “a new investment project based on artificial intelligence” and was created without her consent. She explicitly rejected the content, stating it “does not reflect my words, my values, or my position.” The Lyon defender urged the public to remain vigilant against such manipulations and avoid sharing unverified information.

“A video is currently circulating using my image without my authorization and was created using artificial intelligence. I formally deny its content: it does not reflect my words, my values, or my position. Please remain vigilant against this type of manipulation and do not share false information. Thank you for your support and reports,” Renard wrote in her social media statement.

The deepfake video incorporates elements designed to appear credible, including the logo of Radio Caraïbes International (RCI), an Antillean media outlet, superimposed onto the footage to lend false legitimacy. Renard confirmed that RCI was also victimized by the same deepfake technique, with the outlet issuing its own warning about the fraudulent use of its branding.

In her statement, Renard emphasized that people familiar with her would quickly recognize the video as inauthentic, but warned that others might be deceived. “It’s completely a scam,” she said, confirming the fraudulent nature of the content. “People who understand me immediately saw it wasn’t me. But of course, there are always people who can believe easily and think, why not?”

The incident highlights growing concerns about the misuse of AI-generated deepfakes in sports and public life, particularly for financial fraud. Similar cases have emerged recently, including a reported scam involving a deepfake of French actor Jean Reno that allegedly defrauded a Lyon resident of 350,000 euros, as noted in local French media reports.

Renard, who captains both OL Lyon in France’s Division 1 Féminine and the French national team, has develop into one of the most prominent figures in women’s football. Her leadership on and off the pitch has made her a trusted voice in the sport, increasing the potential impact of such deceptive content.

The footballer’s response aligns with broader efforts by athletes and public figures to combat digital impersonation and misinformation. Her call for vigilance reflects a growing need for public awareness around AI-generated media, especially as deepfake technology becomes more accessible and realistic.

As of Tuesday, April 21, 2026, no legal action has been publicly announced by Renard or her representatives regarding the deepfake incident, though she indicated in her statement that a complaint was “being considered.” The OL Lyon club has not issued an official statement on the matter as of this reporting.

This incident serves as a reminder of the ongoing challenges posed by synthetic media in the digital age, particularly for high-profile athletes whose images and voices are frequently targeted for exploitation. Renard’s proactive response aims to mitigate harm by educating her followers and the wider public about the risks of AI-generated disinformation.

For continued updates on Wendie Renard and OL Lyon, fans are encouraged to follow the club’s official channels and verified sports news outlets.

If you encounter suspicious content claiming to be from athletes or public figures, report it to the platform and avoid sharing it until verified through official sources.