Véronique Sarselli: Who is the new president of the Métropole de Lyon?
The election of Véronique Sarselli as the president of the Métropole de Lyon on March 26, 2026, marks a significant turning point in the region’s political landscape. Her journey, from her Corsican upbringing to her career as an economics teacher and her political debut in Sainte-Foy-lès-Lyon, offers a compelling narrative of determination and strategic alliances. Sarselli’s victory, secured with a strong mandate of 91 votes, underscores a collective aspiration for change and a renewed focus on local governance.
The emotional intensity of her election day was palpable, as Sarselli herself described it. “It was a moment of intense emotion… a personal achievement,” she recounted, emphasizing the profound sense of responsibility that immediately followed. This sentiment resonates with the collective effort that underpinned her campaign, particularly the collaboration with mayors across the territory who had navigated a challenging relationship with the previous executive.
Corsican Roots and Early Influences
Sarselli’s Corsican heritage is a defining aspect of her identity. Growing up in southern Bastia, she imbibed a deep appreciation for Corsican culture and traditions from her entrepreneurial parents. This strong connection to her roots, she explains, is amplified by the island’s insular nature. “You are always attached to your native region… But, in Corsica, because you live insularity, that you are on an island with this protection of the sea around you, this attachment is exacerbated,” Sarselli noted, highlighting the practical skills and values instilled in her from a young age.
Initially aspiring to work for the World Health Organization, Sarselli pivoted to economics, a field influenced by her family’s business background. Her experience managing her family’s stationery store in Corsica and her subsequent career as an economics teacher at iaelyon starting in 1994, laid the groundwork for her eventual foray into politics.
From Community Activism to Political Leadership
Sarselli’s political journey began not by design, but out of necessity and a deep-seated interest in public affairs. Her struggle to secure childcare for her first child led her to community activism, where she became president of the Fidésiens Social Centers from 2000 to 2007. This involvement caught the attention of then-Mayor Michel Chapas, who invited her to join his electoral list in 2008, leading to her appointment as Deputy for Social Affairs.
Her ascent continued, culminating in her election as Mayor of Sainte-Foy in 2014, and a subsequent re-election in 2020. A pivotal moment in her political career was her staunch opposition to the cable car project championed by the previous ecological-LFI majority. This battle, which she describes as a “fight,” not only showcased her ability to mobilize both municipal teams and citizens but also solidified her understanding that major projects require public buy-in to succeed.
The Alliance with Jean-Michel Aulas and a Vision for Lyon
Sarselli’s ambition to play a leading role in the Metropole stemmed from her realization that the previous executive’s approach was unsustainable. Her collaboration with Gilles Gascon, Mayor of Saint-Priest, beginning in January 2024, was instrumental in forging an alliance that aimed to unite the eastern and western parts of the Metropole against the ecological policies of the incumbent administration.
A key aspect of their strategy was addressing mobility issues, advocating for the Metro E project over the Tram express de l’Ouest lyonnais (Teol), and championing the “Metamorphosis” project – a mega-tunnel initiative conceived by architect Hélène Duhoo. This project, which would free up 40 hectares in Perrache, became a cornerstone of her campaign and a point of convergence with Jean-Michel Aulas, a prominent figure in Lyon’s business and sports world.
Despite internal party challenges, including a primary election in February 2025, Sarselli emerged as the chosen candidate for the right-wing in Lyon. Her campaign, rigorously managed by Stéphanie Pernod, the 1st Vice-President of the Region, successfully forged the “Grand Cœur Lyonnais” alliance with Jean-Michel Aulas. This union, though born out of strategic necessity rather than pure sentiment, proved to be the decisive factor in reclaiming the Metropole.
Leadership Style and Future Endeavors
Sarselli’s executive team comprises 25 vice-presidents, including 12 re-elected mayors, signaling her commitment to a decentralized governance model. She firmly asserts her leadership, stating, “There is not Jean-Michel Aulas’s team on one side and Véronique Sarselli’s on the other. We form a single team, with Véronique Sarselli as the head of this executive.” This clear delineation of roles, she believes, is crucial for effective governance.
Her leadership style is characterized by directness and a focus on tangible results. “I think things need to be said. First, because what is said is heard, and what is heard can be understood,” she explained, outlining her plan to meet with all 58 mayors by June to foster dialogue and understanding among constituents.
A significant announcement from Sarselli is her decision to assume the presidency of Sytral, the public transport authority. This move, she believes, will ensure coherence between the Metropole’s vision and its transport projects, sending a strong signal of her commitment to integrated urban planning.
As Lyon embarks on this new political chapter under Véronique Sarselli’s leadership, the focus remains on delivering on the promises made during the campaign. The challenges are numerous, from managing diverse political personalities to implementing ambitious infrastructure projects, but Sarselli’s journey suggests a leader prepared to confront them head-on, guided by her Corsican roots, her background in economics, and a pragmatic approach to governance.
