Zemmour launches second French presidential bid as Le Pen secures campaign loan

· Politics · France

French far-right figure Eric Zemmour confirmed Tuesday that he will stand in next year's presidential election, his second bid after a failed 2022 run. Zemmour, known for anti-Islam and anti-immigrant positions, said he would seek to expel "foreign unemployed people" and made the announcement after last month's violent protests. Separately, the National Rally reached a preliminary agreement with two European banks for a €10 million loan to fund Marine Le Pen's presidential campaign, with lenders expected to finalise it by the end of the month. The race is taking shape amid France's political and economic crises, and Olympic judo champion Teddy Riner's surprise entry has also stirred debate about alternatives to established leaders.

Why it matters：France's presidential race will shape European policy on migration, Ukraine and the economy, and the far right's financing and rivalries are central to it.

Key points

  • Zemmour is making his second presidential bid after 2022.
  • National Rally secured a preliminary €10 million campaign loan.
  • Judo champion Teddy Riner's entry has added to the debate.

Sources (original reporting)

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