Five-time Olympic judo champion Teddy Riner announces run for French presidency

French judoka Teddy Riner, a five-time Olympic champion in judo, has unexpectedly announced that he wants to run in the presidential election. He revealed his decision in an interview with the French daily Le Parisien. The announcement came as a surprise.

The topic is discussed in the latest episode of Politico Europe's Playbook Paris podcast. It examines whether the athlete can realistically go all the way to the end of a campaign. Among the issues raised are his supporters, campaign financing, political positioning and the team that could stand behind him.

Is Riner ready?

The hosts ask whether the judoka is sufficiently prepared for such a step and whether he can stay the course. The source does not supply answers, only the questions that his candidacy prompts.

What does it say about politics?

The podcast also considers what this initiative reveals about the state of the French political class. Riner's announcement is therefore treated not only as one person's decision but as a signal about the wider political situation in the country.

Listeners are invited to send comments to the podcast team via WhatsApp.