Five-Time Olympic Judo Champion Teddy Riner Announces 2027 French Presidential Bid

French judo legend Teddy Riner has announced his intention to contest the country's 2027 presidential election, introducing one of France's most celebrated sports figures into the political arena.

The 37-year-old made the surprise announcement on social media on Monday, declaring his candidacy directly to the public.

“My name is Teddy Riner and today, I am telling you face to face: I am a candidate in the 2027 presidential election,” he said.

Riner Enters Race Amid Far-Right Political Gains

Riner's announcement comes ahead of a closely watched election to replace centrist President Emmanuel Macron, whose current term ends in 2027.

Far-right figure Marine Le Pen has been leading in some opinion polls, while Riner has previously expressed concern about the growing influence of the far right in France.

His entry into the race adds a prominent sporting personality to the country's developing political contest.

A Record-Breaking Judo Career

Riner is one of France's most decorated athletes, with five Olympic gold medals and 11 world championship titles to his name.

He won individual heavyweight gold at the 2012 London, 2016 Rio de Janeiro and 2024 Paris Olympic Games. He also secured mixed team gold medals at the 2020 Tokyo and 2024 Paris Games.

His achievements have made him one of the country's most recognisable sporting figures.

Sporting Figures in French Politics

Riner would not be the first prominent French judoka to move into politics. David Douillet, another Olympic champion, was elected to the French parliament in 2009 and later served as Minister of Sports from September 2011 to May 2012.

Riner's announcement now raises questions about how he intends to translate his public profile and sporting experience into a presidential campaign ahead of the 2027 vote.

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