Jean-Michel Aulas: A Football Icon's Bid for Lyon's Mayoralty

Jean-Michel Aulas, the former president of Olympique Lyonnais, is contesting the mayoral election in Lyon, aiming to unseat the current Green mayor, Grégory Doucet. Aulas, who led the football club for 36 years, has garnered support from notable figures, including Karim Benzema and Bafétimbi Gomis, who praised his leadership qualities. Aulas's campaign, launched in September, has positioned him as a "civil society" candidate, appealing to a broad coalition that includes the Renaissance party and the right-wing Les Républicains. Polls indicate he is leading with approximately 40% support ahead of the first round of voting.

The Guardian

Aulas's candidacy has sparked a mix of support and criticism. Gautier Chapuis, a deputy mayor and member of Doucet's left-wing coalition, criticized Aulas for lacking substantive policy proposals, focusing instead on his football legacy. Chapuis emphasized that voters are more concerned with pressing issues like housing and healthcare. In contrast, Pierre Oliver, a Républicains mayor and Aulas's ally, highlighted Aulas's contributions to the city and the enthusiasm of Lyon fans rallying behind him.

The Guardian

Aulas's campaign has faced scrutiny regarding potential conflicts of interest due to his ongoing roles in football governance. The French Football Federation's ethics committee recently reminded him to avoid making campaign promises related to football, particularly concerning a proposed stadium for a local fifth-tier club. Additionally, a proposed metro line linked to an arena owned by Aulas's investment firm has raised further allegations of impropriety. Aulas's supporters, however, argue that he has transferred his business interests to his son, distancing himself from any conflicts.

The Guardian

Political analysts note that Aulas's campaign has shifted towards the right, particularly following the involvement of regional figures like Laurent Wauquiez. Romain Meltz, a political science professor, remarked on Aulas's initial attempts to attract center-left support, which became untenable as the coalition moved rightward. The campaign has also been overshadowed by the recent killing of far-right activist Quentin Deranque, with Aulas calling for a tribute to him, a move that Doucet condemned as politically inappropriate.

The Guardian

Aulas has faced allegations regarding his past associations with violent groups in football, which he has vehemently denied. In a televised debate, he acknowledged his unfamiliarity with political discourse, admitting to struggles during the exchange. Following his absence from a subsequent debate, Doucet accused him of "empty-chair politics," further complicating Aulas's campaign narrative.

The Guardian

As the election approaches, Aulas remains a frontrunner despite the controversies and criticisms surrounding his campaign. The first round of voting is imminent, with a second round scheduled if no candidate secures a majority. The outcome will significantly impact Lyon's political landscape and Aulas's future in public service.

The Guardian

• “He has everything it takes to do well,” — Karim Benzema, Former Professional Footballer

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• “What matters to people is finding housing, getting healthcare and being able to feel safe in the city,” — Gautier Chapuis, Deputy Mayor

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• “He made the city shine through Olympique Lyonnais and Cegid,” — Pierre Oliver, Républicains Mayor

The Guardian

• “During my years as president of Olympique Lyonnais, I have always condemned violence and excesses in the strongest possible terms,” — Jean-Michel Aulas, Mayoral Candidate

The Guardian