Mbappé encourages youth to vote against extremism as campaign begins

France’s star footballer Kylian Mbappé called on voters to reject “extremist” parties during the country’s parliamentary elections campaign. President Emmanuel Macron’s centrist alliance faces competition from new coalitions on the left and right following a recent far-right victory.

Mbappé, speaking ahead of France’s opening Euro 2024 game, emphasized the importance of voting against extremists to shape the country’s future. However, concerns about voter apathy, especially among young voters, linger.

The campaign has also seen new alliances forming on the extreme left and right, with tensions rising within political parties over electoral pacts. The first round of voting is set for June 30, with Macron aiming to secure a new parliamentary majority.

Prime Minister Gabriel Attal warned against opting for the left-wing Popular Front or far-right National Rally, labeling them as “a disaster for the country.” Macron’s bloc presents a third option, with voting set for June 30 and a decisive second round a week later.

President Macron is expected to refocus on the domestic campaign after international engagements, as the political landscape in France continues to evolve ahead of the elections.