Willy Sagnol backs David Lisnard in 2027 presidential race

Willy Sagnol has officially committed to supporting David Lisnard, a declared candidate in the 2027 presidential election. The former France defender (58 caps) and Bayern Munich player announced his backing during an appearance on the podcast Passage à l’acte, presented by Sophie Mouysset, chief of staff to the mayor of Cannes.

For the 2006 World Cup finalist, this choice stems from a personal assessment of the French situation. “I cannot accept seeing the country torn between two extremes. We see the situation in France right now, the political, social, economic situation…” he said. The former Girondins de Bordeaux manager also explained his civic awakening: “I no longer want to be the one complaining every morning, saying the country is heading for disaster.”

This rapprochement is not entirely surprising. As early as late August, Sagnol had participated in “La Gagne”, the summer university of the Nouvelle Énergie movement organized in Cannes, already signaling his proximity to the Côte d’Azur politician. Recently freed from his position as Georgia national team manager, which he held since 2021, the former Saint-Étienne player is now putting his prominence at the service of a liberal and reformist agenda.

This endorsement comes at a favorable moment for the president of the Association of French Mayors, credited with 9% voting intention in the scenario where he would be the only right-wing candidate tested, ahead of Bruno Retailleau by 2.5 to 3 points depending on the polling configurations. The support of a prominent figure in French sport strengthens the momentum of a campaign still under construction.