Teddy Riner speaks out about violence in front of high schools and defends youth

His speaking out on social issues is becoming more and more frequent. Teddy Riner, the French champion with five Olympic gold medals and eleven world titles, wrote a message on X to express his views on the burning news and the mobilization of high school students this week. Like 10,000 meter world champion Jimmy Gressier did a few hours before him.

The judoka of Guadeloupean origin first wanted to condemn the violence observed in front of high schools throughout France by asking that the guilty pay for their mistakes. “A burning high school puts lives in danger. These are students who lose their classroom, their workshop, a place where they prepare for their future. No amount of anger justifies this. Those responsible must be identified and punished,” wrote the legend of the tatami mats, who however warned against the temptation of amalgamation between troublemakers and young people who are mobilizing with demands. “But I refuse to put an entire generation on trial,” specifies the Frenchman.

“I believe in this youth”

“A few weeks ago, in a vocational high school, I met young people who are working hard to learn a trade. They want to succeed. They deserve to be encouraged and protected for their efforts. I think of them. I also think of the teachers and staff who accompany them every day, and who must be able to work without being afraid,” added Riner, who insists: “Listening to the difficulties of young people, yes. Let violence decide if they can go to class, ever.” Before concluding: “I believe in this youth. And I want a young person who walks through the door of their high school to be able to think about their future, not their security.”