Teddy Riner runs for French presidency
Three-time Olympic judo champion announces bid
Teddy Riner, a 37-year-old judoka, has announced his intention to run for the French presidency. He aims to bring the French people together and show that France can be turned around.
Key takeaways
- Three-time Olympic judo champion
- 37 years old
- No prior experience in politics
- Aims to bring people together
” The 37-year-old said he would not run on a left- or right-wing ticket, adding that he decided to commit himself to the race because he does not accept young people saying it is difficult today to imagine a future. “France is a great country.
It has allowed me to become the person I am today and has given me the opportunity to dream big,” Riner said. “Today, that’s what’s missing. ”
Teddy Riner, once targeted by far-right racists, announces bid for French presidency
The election to decide Emmanuel Macron’s successor will be held in April next year. Macron, having served two consecutive terms, is ineligible to run again.
Riner has no experience of politics but is a well-known and popular figure in France, and he previously hinted at a desire to enter politics at the highest level. In an interview last year he said: “I am a citizen above all, not just a sportsperson.
If tomorrow I enter politics, it wouldn’t be to be a minister, it would be to change things. ”
Riner was born in Guadeloupe and grew up in Paris. He is a nine-time heavyweight world champion, two-time openweight world champion, and has two Olympic bronze medals to go with his three individual golds and two mixed team gold medals.
He was a torchbearer during the Olympic torch relay ahead of the 2024 Games in Paris, and lit the cauldron during the opening ceremony alongside retired sprinter Marie-Jose Perec. He said the experience of the home Olympic Games uniting the country inspired him to enter politics.
Riner said his decision to run for president would not end his judo career or hopes of competing at the LA Games 2028.
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