A former president of French football club Olympique Lyonnais has announced his candidacy for mayor of Lyon in 2026.
Jean-Michel Aulas is launching a political movement called Cœur Lyonnais (Lyonnais Heart).
Aulas enters politics with backing from the Right and centre-right parties.
Laurent Wauquiez, President of Les Républicains party and head of the regional council, publicly endorsed him on September 4, declaring: “I am delighted to rally behind a candidate who embodies Lyon’s pride and who can put our city back on the right track.”
Despite support from other parties, in a letter to residents, Aulas insisted his push for the role would not be partisan but rooted in local identity. “This will not be the candidacy of a party but that of a Lyonnais committed to his city. Lyon must rediscover an ambition worthy of its history. Lyon deserves a future that everyone can be proud of.”
His popularity among football fans may provide him with a loyal base of support but whether he can convince the broader electorate remains to be seen.
Aulas 76, is expected to hold his first political rally on September 26.
He led Olympique Lyonnais for 36 years, from 1987 to 2023and the club became a powerhouse in French football. Between 2002 and 2008, it won seven consecutive French Ligue 1 titles.
He also transformed the various elements of the club into a publicly listed holding company, OL Groupe.
In 2022, it was sold to US businessman John Textor’s holding Eagle Football. Aulas initially remained as president but left in May 2023, after the new owners criticised his sporting strategy and disappointing results.
He departed with a €10 million settlement, three years earlier than planned.
