Judo champion Teddy Riner enters French presidential race
Olympic judo champion Teddy Riner has announced his candidacy for the 2027 French presidential election.
KEY POINTS
- Teddy Riner announced his candidacy for the 2027 French presidential election.
- He describes his position as neither right-wing nor left-wing.
- France is experiencing social tensions with protests over wages and student issues.
- Riner plans to compete for an individual Olympic gold medal in Los Angeles in 2028.
- Other athletes such as George Weah and Vitali Klitschko have previously entered politics.
Teddy Riner, a 37-year-old judo champion, announced his candidacy for the French presidency on Monday via social media. He stated that remaining silent about the country's situation would be irresponsible.
Riner described himself as neither right-wing nor left-wing in an interview with Le Parisien. He aims to become a president who unites the French people.
“If refusing to bow my head makes me crazy, then yes, I am completely crazy.”
The 2027 presidential election takes place amid tense social conditions. Recent protests in Paris and other cities have demanded higher wages and supported student movements.
Riner said he hears the anger of young and older generations who struggle to imagine a future for themselves. He emphasized that France allowed him to dream big and that this ambition is currently missing.
The judoka, who stands 2.04 meters tall, is an eleven-time world champion and five-time Olympic champion. He plans to end his career with an individual gold medal at the 2028 Los Angeles Games.
Riner said his presidential bid does not mean he is giving up the Olympics. He stated he would continue if his presidential duties permit and the French people give their blessing.
The article also references other athletes who entered politics, including George Weah, Guy Drut, Laura Flessel, and Vitali Klitschko.
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