2027 Presidential Surprise: Judo Legend Teddy Riner Runs for the Élysée, and Macron Welcomes the Move

French Olympic judo champion Teddy Riner has unexpectedly entered the political arena in France, announcing his bid for the 2027 presidential election. The announcement came via a short video posted on his social media accounts, in which he addressed the public saying: “My name is Teddy Riner, and I am a candidate for the 2027 presidential election,” in a move that unsettled a broad segment of the country's political establishment.

Presidential Welcome and Mixed Reactions

For his part, French President Emmanuel Macron did not conceal his satisfaction with the step, stating on Monday that he was “extremely happy” with this candidacy, adding: “This can only bring something positive to the country,” and praising the involvement of this “great champion” in the public political arena.

Reactions followed swiftly after the announcement. Former Prime Minister Édouard Philippe welcomed what he described as a “weighty candidate,” while former Prime Minister Dominique de Villepin hailed a “man of experience” whose “voice carries immense weight.” In contrast, others questioned the seriousness of the move; former 110-meter hurdles champion Guy Drut described Riner’s candidacy as “ridiculous,” while circles close to Riner affirm that he takes on this challenge with confidence and considers himself capable of winning the presidency.

A 'Neither Right Nor Left' Candidate

The 37-year-old Guadeloupean champion, holder of five Olympic gold medals and eleven world titles, relies on an avowed desire to transcend traditional political alignments in France. In an interview with the newspaper Le Parisien, he explained: “I refuse to surrender to only two options, which are those of extremist currents,” asserting that he does not categorize himself as either right or left, and emphasizing that his electoral platform is “ready and robust” to contest the upcoming presidential race.