Key facts
- Marine Le Pen expressed relief that Jordan Bardella could run for president if she is barred from the 2027 election.
- Le Pen is appealing a conviction for embezzling European Parliament funds, with a court ruling expected July 7.
- Bardella is the National Rally's designated alternative candidate.
- Bardella indicated a more moderate foreign policy, aiming to reform the EU rather than leave it.
- Bardella stated opposition to leaving NATO's integrated command and limited troop deployment to Ukraine.
Marine Le Pen, a prominent figure in French far-right politics, has stated that it is a "relief" for her that Jordan Bardella, the current leader of the National Rally party, can serve as a potential candidate in the 2027 French presidential election should she be barred from running.
Le Pen faces a potential exclusion from the race due to a conviction for embezzling European Parliament funds. She has appealed this ruling, with a decision from the court anticipated on July 7. If her appeal is successful, Le Pen intends to pursue the presidency. Bardella, 30, is positioned as the party's backup option.