Riner Calls Macron's Congratulations a "Poisoned Kiss": "I Am Not Macron's Man"
French judo star Teddy Riner, a candidate in the 2027 presidential election, publicly distanced himself from President Emmanuel Macron on November 14 during a visit to the Made in France trade fair in Paris, describing Macron's congratulations on his candidacy as a "poisoned kiss" and insisting: "I am not the president's envoy. I am not a Macronist."
Riner announced his surprise candidacy on November 9. The same day, Macron told France 5 television that Riner was a "great champion" whose entry into the race could "only benefit the country." The rare public praise fuelled speculation that Macron was endorsing Riner, or even grooming the political newcomer as a successor.
The trade fair visit was Riner's second campaign trip since his announcement. Speaking to a crowd of reporters, he said that if he had to describe the president's congratulations, it would be more like a poisoned kiss. According to AFP, the 37-year-old from Guadeloupe said when announcing his bid that he feared France could become deeply divided, describing himself as neither left nor right and promising to unite the country. Polls suggest about one in five voters could support him.
Riner is one of France's most popular public figures, with five Olympic gold medals in his career. To appear on the ballot for the April 2027 election, he must first secure the sponsorship of 500 elected officials.
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(Source: AFP)
Source: AFP
Published by GSM · USA (original Chinese edition)
Photo: 图：法国柔道名将特迪·里内（白衣）在2024年巴黎奥运会柔道混合团体比赛中（资料图）。照片：Daieuxetdailleurs 摄，CC BY 4.0，经 Wikimedia Commons。 / Photo: French judo star Teddy Riner (in white) competing at the Paris 2024 Olympics (file photo). Photo by Daieuxetdailleurs, CC BY 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons.
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- 2026-11-14Riner Calls Macron's Congratulations a "Poisoned Kiss": "I Am Not Macron's Man"This story
