Olympic Judo Champion Teddy Riner Announces 2027 French Presidential Bid

French five-time Olympic judo champion Teddy Riner announced on Monday that he will run in the country's presidential election in 2027. The 37-year-old athlete made his surprise declaration on social media and through media interviews, stating that resignation is not an option in the face of national challenges.

Declaring that it is time to take responsibility, Riner stated that France needs common sense, firmness, justice, and a state that puts things back in order rather than professional politicians. He positions himself as neither of the right nor of the left, campaigning behind the slogan "The France we want" and focusing heavily on bridging the social fracture and restoring public hope.

Riner explained that he began thinking about a presidential run two years ago and decided to take the plunge this autumn after observing widespread anger, anxiety, and a feeling that nobody is answering the public's concerns. He emphasized his desire to give back to the country that shaped him, noting that France allowed him to dream big and that younger and older generations should feel the same optimism about their futures.

The sports star stated that he is not afraid of the political battles ahead. "When you know how to take hits, you also know how to give them," he remarked, adding that he would not have entered the race if he did not believe he had a strong chance of winning. He intends to gather the 500 required signatures to officially secure his spot on the ballot.

Despite his political ambitions, Riner does not plan to entirely abandon his athletic career immediately. He noted that judo will always be part of his life and expressed a surprising intention to compete at the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles if elected, provided the duties of the presidency allow it and the French people authorize it.

Reactions from political and athletic figures were swift. Amélie Oudéa-Castéra, president of the French National Olympic and Sports Committee, acknowledged that while the announcement came as a surprise, athletes retain the freedom to make their own civic choices while emphasizing that sports organizations remain politically neutral. Meanwhile, potential political rival Édouard Philippe described Riner as a heavyweight candidate, remarking that he admires the champion rather than fears him.