Judoka Teddy Riner Enters the Race for French Presidency
The five-time Olympic champion has announced his intention to run in the 2027 elections. To officially register, he must secure the support of 500 elected officials.
French judoka Teddy Riner announced on 9 November his intention to run for the presidency of France. In an interview with *Le Parisien*, he explained his decision by citing the social divide in the country and stated that he wants to unite the French people.
Riner positions himself outside the traditional left-right political divide. In a video address, he acknowledged that he has no political experience and stated that he is familiar with the everyday problems of the French. Among his priorities, he listed justice and order.
Riner has won three Olympic gold medals in individual competitions and two in team events. He also holds 12 gold medals from world championships.
The first round of the French presidential elections is scheduled for 18 April 2027, with the second round on 2 May. The current president, Emmanuel Macron, is completing his second consecutive term. The French Constitution limits the number of consecutive presidential terms to two.
