LYON, December 11 – Karim Benzema, the former Olympique Lyonnais star, has thrown his significant support behind Jean-Michel Aulas, his former club president, for the upcoming municipal elections in Lyon. Benzema’s endorsement, made public on Thursday, December 11, adds considerable weight to Aulas’s campaign for the mayoral seat.
Benzema: “He Must Become Mayor of Lyon”
In an interview with L’Equipe, Benzema expressed his strong conviction regarding Aulas’s suitability for the role. “He must become mayor of Lyon, because that is his place,” the former French international declared. “He is the one who will make things happen, who will make them move […]. It would be excellent for the city of Lyon.” This statement underscores a deep respect and belief in Aulas’s leadership capabilities, stemming from their long-standing relationship at Olympique Lyonnais.
Aulas: A Popular Figure and Frontrunner
Jean-Michel Aulas, aged 76, is a prominent figure in Lyon, enjoying broad support from a coalition spanning the center and right political spectrum. He is currently considered the leading candidate in the polls, challenging the incumbent Green mayor, Grégory Doucet. Aulas has already indicated his intention to leverage this momentum at the metropolitan level, with his electoral lists branded as “Grand cœur lyonnais” (Great Heart of Lyon).
Recent surveys confirm Aulas’s strong position. A study conducted for Lyon Capitale on November 21 placed the Olympique Lyonnais legend significantly ahead in voting intentions, garnering 47% of the votes in the first round against Grégory Doucet, and an impressive 61% in the second round. This indicates a robust and widespread appeal among the electorate, positioning him as the clear favorite to win the mayoral race.
Why Aulas’s Candidacy Resonates in Lyon
Aulas’s popularity is deeply rooted in his long and successful tenure as president of Olympique Lyonnais, during which the club achieved significant sporting and financial success. His leadership is associated with a period of growth and prominence for Lyon, both on the national and international stage. This history has cultivated a strong sense of loyalty and admiration among many Lyonnais residents, who view him as a dynamic and effective leader capable of driving progress.
His campaign focuses on themes of urban development, economic growth, and enhancing Lyon’s standing as a major European city. The endorsement from a globally recognized football icon like Karim Benzema further amplifies Aulas’s visibility and appeal, particularly among younger voters and sports enthusiasts, potentially swaying undecided voters in his favor.
The Impact of a High-Profile Endorsement
The backing from a figure of Benzema’s stature is a significant boost for Aulas’s campaign. Such endorsements can often energize a candidate’s base, attract media attention, and lend an aura of credibility and broad appeal. Benzema’s words suggest that Aulas possesses the vision and drive necessary to lead Lyon effectively, drawing parallels between his successful management of a football club and the governance of a major city.
The municipal elections in Lyon, scheduled for March, are shaping up to be a closely watched contest. With strong public support and now a high-profile endorsement from Karim Benzema, Jean-Michel Aulas appears to be in a commanding position to secure the mayoralty, potentially ushering in a new era of leadership for the city.
