French Judo Star Faces Racist Abuse After Criticizing Far-Right

Paris prosecutors have opened an investigation into racist abuse and cyberharassment directed at French judo star Teddy Riner after he voiced concerns about the rise of the hard-right in France. The investigation was initiated after Riner reported receiving a torrent of abuse on social media following a television appearance.

Riner, one of the most decorated judo competitors globally, stated on a sports show earlier this month that he felt "anxiety" regarding the increasing influence of the hard-right. When asked if his concern extended to both the hard-left and hard-right, Riner specified "the far right."

In response to the subsequent online backlash, Riner posted on social media, "I expressed a concern. Everyone is free to share it or not. Debate and disagreement are legitimate. Hatred and racism are not." He added that the Paris prosecutor's office has decided to open an investigation for public racist insults and cyberharassment. Riner declared that any hateful or racist remarks made against him would be documented and, where warranted, would lead to legal action. He also expressed gratitude for messages of support and solidarity, stating, "They matter."

Riner, who was born in Guadeloupe and grew up in Paris, became a national figure after the Paris 2024 Olympics and is considered a medal hopeful for the 2028 Games. He indicated that he would continue to speak out against the hard-right, stating, "I grew up in a France where people in difficulty were close-knit and united. Today's attempts to divide France, to create a mood of instability are unfamiliar to me." He emphasized his desire for a France where "everyone knew how to live together."

This incident echoes a similar controversy earlier this year involving fellow French athlete Kylian Mbappé. Mbappé faced criticism from the hard-right party National Rally (RN) after expressing concerns about their potential to win a presidential election. Mbappé had stated, "I know what it means and what consequences it can have for my country when people like them come to power." RN politicians, including Marine Le Pen and Julien Odoul, responded, with Le Pen suggesting that football fans were free to vote without external influence, and Odoul labeling Mbappé a "political activist."

Riner had commented on the Mbappé situation earlier this month, writing on social media, "Being a high-level athlete doesn't prevent one from keeping their feet on the ground and maintaining an attentive gaze on their country." He elaborated on his concerns, citing "the rising anger, the difficult end-of-month finances, the eroding respect for our institutions, the vulnerabilities of our school system, and the lack of prospects for our youth." Riner concluded by stating his deep love for France and his commitment to defending its history, people, heritage, republican values, and diversity.