French President Emmanuel Macron once again exhibited his athletic prowess on Wednesday, this time in anticipation of Paris hosting the Summer Olympics. Macron, an avid soccer enthusiast, participated in a charity match at a club in Yvelines, west of Paris, sporting a team jersey. The event supported a children’s health charity led by first lady Brigitte Macron and included notable players like former World Cup winners Laurent Blanc and Didier Deschamps.
Since assuming office in 2017, the 46-year-old president has consistently showcased his athleticism and physique, which observers perceive as a strategic move to portray a dynamic image as France’s youngest leader. Earlier this year, viral social media images of Macron boxing generated significant attention, seen as part of his efforts to bolster Europe’s response to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
During Wednesday’s match, Macron played midfield alongside 1998 World Cup champions Didier Drogba and Eden Hazard. Other prominent participants included MMA fighter Cyril Gane and former German goalkeeper Jens Lehmann. Macron is no stranger to the football scene, having previously participated in a charity match where he notably scored a penalty three years ago.
Following the match, all participants were invited to the presidential Elysee Palace, further emphasizing the social significance of the event in the lead-up to the Games. This charity match underscores Macron’s commitment to leveraging sports to promote charitable causes and foster national pride ahead of the significant international event, set to take place in Paris from July 26th to August 11th.
