French President Emmanuel Macron has welcomed Olympic judo champion Teddy Riner's decision to run in the 2027 presidential election. He spoke about this on France 5 television.
"I am very glad that a man like the great champion Teddy Riner has decided to join this presidential debate and share his convictions, ideas and talent. This will undoubtedly benefit the country," Macron said.
However, he refused to comment on the new candidate's initial statements or his chances, explaining that he does not intend to interfere in the presidential campaign. Macron stressed that Riner is a great athlete and "the pride of the country," and also noted that "the life of the nation does not belong only to professionals."
Earlier, Teddy Riner himself had announced his intention to run for the country's presidency.
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Riner's candidacy is an interesting twist in France's political landscape, as he comes from sport rather than the traditional party system. Macron's restrained response — praise without assessment — shows how he is keeping his distance from the campaign for now.
Also noteworthy is Macron's observation that the life of the nation does not belong to professionals. That can be read as a hint that politics should also be open to people from outside.
In the coming months, it will become clear whether Riner's candidacy will become serious competition or remain a symbolic step.
