July 7 appeal ruling: Le Pen’s eligibility to run in 2027 at stake

Paris – 06/07/2026: The Paris Court of Appeal is expected to deliver its verdict on 7 July 2026 in the case concerning the employment of European Parliament assistants by the Rassemblement national (RN). The focus is on the political future of Marine Le Pen. At first instance, she was convicted on 31 March 2025 of embezzlement of public funds and sentenced to imprisonment, a fine, and five years of ineligibility. If the Court of Appeal upholds these penalties and makes them immediately enforceable, it would effectively rule out her participation in the 2027 presidential election.

Specifically, the prosecution alleges that Le Pen and other RN officials had European Parliament staff work on domestic party activities, even though their salaries were paid from European Parliament funds. In the appeal proceedings, the defense did not entirely deny party-related work, but argued that it was compatible with the duties of parliamentary office or, at the very least, did not constitute intentional wrongdoing. The prosecution, meanwhile, is seeking confirmation of the severe penalties and points to systematic overlap between party work and parliamentary duties.

Politically, a final ruling of ineligibility would have immediate consequences. The RN would have to reconsider its leadership structure and campaign plans and could be forced to establish an interim party leadership or select a presidential candidate early. Observers note that an appeal to the Court of Cassation may subsequently be possible, but because it does not conduct a new review of the facts, it could conflict with the election timetable. Even if the ruling were later overturned, it is another question whether necessary filing deadlines and supporter-gathering procedures could be maintained until then.

The trial goes beyond the individual case and also affects the relationship between party organization at the European level and the exercise of public office. The European Parliament has already introduced stricter monitoring mechanisms several years ago after several political groups came under scrutiny over similar practices. In France, the ruling is seen as a test case for measuring how judicial decisions affect ongoing political dynamics—from the pool of candidates to coalition arithmetic and voter mobilization.

For Le Pen, who has consistently won double-digit vote shares in several elections and built the RN into the largest force in various elections, more than her personal prospects is at stake. The ruling could determine whether the RN continues its course with her at the forefront or is forced to reorganize before the 2027 presidential election. Parties and supporters are preparing statements for 7 July, and depending on the verdict, reactions from supporters and opponents are likely to follow throughout the day.