Xavier Niel: From Telecom Tycoon to Aspiring Paris Mayor?

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Xavier Niel, the head honcho of Free, has pondered the idea of becoming the Mayor of Paris in the future. While he’s currently not running for the 2026 elections, he admits he’d love to help his city in a leadership role down the line. However, he recognizes the need for younger leaders and expresses his lack of political ambition, focusing instead on his business ventures.

So, is Xavier Niel, the big cheese of Free, eyeing the keys to the Paris City Hall? Not just yet! While he’s not throwing his hat in the ring for the 2026 mayoral race, he certainly has some plans brewing in that entrepreneurial brain of his. In his recent book, “Une sacrée envie de foutre le bordel,” he mused about the idea, saying, “I would find it great to be Mayor of Paris. Why not, one day, in twenty years, when I’m old and retiring from telecoms?” Sounds like Niel’s already planning his retirement career as Paris’ very own superhero of urban governance! Digging deeper into his Parisian dreams, he expressed, “I’ve lived in Créteil, I have some ideas about the Greater Paris. I’m not sure I could do better than others, but I’d love to use my money to help my city, just like Bloomberg did.” Aha! So, he fancies himself as a pastel-suited Michael Bloomberg—just minus the political baggage! Niel, when cornered by France Inter about his lack of political involvement, playfully admitted, “I’m not a politician, I don’t do politics… I might be lacking the courage to engage, but that’s not my job.” Well, if we gave medals for honesty, we’d have ourselves a winner right there! But wait—he wasn’t finished. He sagely reflected on age and leadership, stating, “I think it takes a young person to lead this city. And in twenty years, an old white male of 75 as mayor? I’m not sure that’s what Parisians will be looking for.” Look out, future young candidates, he’s just thrown down the gauntlet! As if running a telecom empire wasn’t enough, Niel’s also embarked on a new adventure by joining the board of Bytedance, the parent company of TikTok. Because, why not add ‘keeping up with the kids’ to his resume? If you’re curious about that association, check out our dedicated article for all the juicy details!

Xavier Niel is a well-known figure in the French tech industry, famously recognized as the founder of the telecommunications company Free. His recent candidacy speculation for the Mayor of Paris has garnered attention, particularly as he shares his future aspirations in a new book where he discusses urban development and his involvement in politics. Despite his entrepreneurial spirit, Niel has been hesitant to dive into political waters, reflecting on the qualities needed in a leader and emphasizing the need for youthful perspectives in governance.

In conclusion, while Xavier Niel might be playing coy about his political ambitions for now, he certainly has the heart for Paris! He’s not looking to swap his telecom crown for a mayoral sash just yet, citing his age and a preference for a younger leader. Whether Niel’s future holds a political pivot or not, one thing’s for sure—he’s not just sitting idly; between his ventures at Free and TikTok, this entrepreneur is keeping himself busy and relevant!

Original Source: www.presse-citron.net

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