Jordan Bardella seen as RN’s alternative for the 2027 presidential election, as the decision on Marine Le Pen remains unclear

Rassemblement National, the far-right force in France, has begun preparations for the 2027 presidential election as it awaits the appeal decision on Marine Le Pen. She faces the risk of being barred from the race because of a case related to the misuse of European Union funds.

If Le Pen is not given the green light to run, the name expected to represent RN is Jordan Bardella. According to polls, both Le Pen and Bardella would come out on top in the first round, making the possibility of an RN victory closer than ever before.

According to analysts, the party’s growing support is linked to its effort to break away from its former perception as a radical force and present itself as a political movement prepared to take over the government.

In terms of foreign policy as well, RN is revising its positions toward Germany. Unlike in the past, Bardella has spoken in appreciative terms about Chancellor Friedrich Merz, underscoring the existence of a “shared ideological basis,” especially on immigration and opposition to some EU climate-related policies.

Rassemblement National has also distanced itself from Germany’s AfD, which it sees as too radical. However, experts stress that an electoral success for RN could create friction between Paris and Berlin, particularly on issues related to energy, the EU budget and European integration.

Although these disagreements may exist, expectations are that Franco-German cooperation will not be harmed. The example cited is the case of Giorgia Meloni’s government in Italy, which after taking power turned into a functional partner for EU countries.