The verdict against Le Pen

The verdict against Le Pen attracts journalists from all over the world

Journalists from all over the world have been attracted to France when the verdict against right-wing politician Marine Le Pen is to be presented today, writes Politico.

75 journalists will be allowed in for the reading. The first ones started queuing as early as 05.00 this morning, as it is first come, first served.

Le Pen is charged with embezzling 32 million kronor in EU funds and was sentenced to four years in prison in March 2025. It was appealed and now the new verdict will be read out at 13.30. It may last a couple of hours because the judges will probably want to explain how they have reasoned, writes Politico.

Le Pen is not expected to speak immediately after the verdict, but will go to the party headquarters in Paris. Instead, she will speak on French television during the evening. 

The verdict against Le Pen — the case is relevant

• In March 2025, Marine Le Pen was sentenced to four years in prison and a five-year ban from public office for embezzling EU funds.
• The verdict means that Le Pen cannot run in the 2027 presidential election, but she has appealed and a final decision is expected in the summer of 2026.
• Le Pen and her party, the National Rally, have called the verdict political, while prosecutors and the court have emphasized the seriousness of the crimes.
• If Le Pen is prevented from running, party leader Jordan Bardella is pointed out as a possible presidential candidate for the National Rally.