French far-right leader Marine Le Pen has been found guilty of misappropriating European funds to finance her National Rally (RN) party.
The verdict, delivered in a Paris court, comes as a major blow to her political ambitions, particularly ahead of the 2027 presidential race.
The judge has yet to announce the sentence, but prosecutors had previously recommended a €300,000 (£250,000) fine, a prison term, and, crucially, a five-year ban from running for public office.
If enforced immediately, the ruling would effectively derail Le Pen’s bid for the presidency.
The case revolves around allegations that Le Pen and other RN members misused European Parliament funds by falsely declaring party staff as EU parliamentary assistants.
Investigations into the matter began years ago, leading to a high-profile trial that has now culminated in her conviction.
Le Pen is widely expected to appeal, which could delay the final outcome. However, if the court upholds the ineligibility ruling without suspension, it would significantly reshape France’s political landscape, potentially boosting President Emmanuel Macron’s allies or other opposition figures ahead of 2027.
The reading of the full verdict is expected to take up to two hours, with political observers closely watching the implications for France’s future.
