Teddy Riner has announced his intention to run for president of France while also aiming for a fourth individual Olympic gold medal at the Los Angeles Games in 2028, reports BritPanorama.
Riner, a renowned judoka and 11-time world champion, clarified that his presidential aspirations will not hinder his Olympic goals. “Not if my duties as president allow it and the French people give me their blessing,” he stated in an interview with Le Parisien.
In September, Riner spoke out against online racial abuse directed at him, which followed his comments on the rising far-right extremism in France. During an appearance on Stade 2, he expressed distress over this political climate, emphasizing his concerns regarding the far right in particular.
Current opinion polls suggest that nationalist Marine Le Pen is the front-runner to succeeding Emmanuel Macron in the presidency, with competition from several candidates across the political spectrum, including hard-left leader Jean-Luc Mélenchon and former prime ministers under Macron’s government.
“The country is experiencing deep divisions right now, let’s not kid ourselves,” Riner reflected. “And in the face of that, I don’t see a single candidate putting forward a credible and fair vision capable of bringing the French people together rather than dividing them.” He emphasized his aim to foster unity and hope among the populace.
To officially enter the race, Riner must collect 500 sponsorship signatures from elected officials, as mandated by French electoral law.
Regarding his initial international priorities if elected, Riner indicated a desire to strengthen collaboration with allies. He joked about the prospect of meeting former U.S. President Donald Trump, remarking on the anticipated significance of their future handshake.
Whether Riner can balance the demands of political life with his athletic ambitions remains to be seen, as both arenas present formidable challenges.
