Teddy Riner Loses Sponsor Days After Announcing 2027 French Presidential Bid
French judoka Teddy Riner loses a major sponsorship with Saxo Bank just days after announcing his 2027 presidential bid, highlighting strict campaign finance rules in France.
Legendary French judoka Teddy Riner is already facing economic consequences just days after announcing his candidacy for the 2027 French presidential election. Danish investment bank Saxo Bank announced the suspension of Riner's participation in its recent advertising campaign, citing strict French campaign financing regulations.
According to reports, the decision was reached by mutual agreement between the bank and the 37-year-old athlete. Saxo Bank stated that following Riner's presidential announcement, it was agreed to suspend his role in the campaign, which carries the slogan "To be invested: commitment is a way of life," to comply with applicable legal frameworks.
Following the move, Riner's images were removed from promotional materials and the central poster. The campaign continues with eight other prominent athletes, including Formula 1 driver Lando Norris, former footballer Gareth Bale, Real Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois, and chess champion Magnus Carlsen.
French campaign finance laws require a strict separation between commercial business activities and political campaigns to prevent indirect political financing. Riner, a five-time Olympic gold medalist, intends to continue his athletic career alongside his presidential bid and has not ruled out participating in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.
Announcing his bid on Monday under the slogan "The France we want," Riner presented himself as an independent candidate aiming to unite the French public amid growing social tensions. This initial sponsor withdrawal highlights the complex challenges awaiting the sports icon in the political arena.
