PODCAST: Crunch time for Le Pen, Ryanair's threat and McDonald's targets rural France
Host Ben McPartland is joined by The Local France's Emma Pearson, Genevieve Mansfield and John Lichfield to look at all the latest news and talking points from France.
This week, we start off by looking at an important court case that could turn the tide of French politics for years to come. Judges will soon announce their decision regarding whether or not far-right Rassemblement National leader Marine Le Pen has been banned from standing in elections.
We dive into her chances of being barred from standing in the 2027 presidential election, and what could happen if she is.
You can listen to Talking France on Spotify or Apple, download
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Away from politics, we discuss the country's love for fast food and how McDonald's plans to conquer rural France, plus some of the backlash to this plan.
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If you've ever ordered a Happy Meal in France, there's a chance it came with a little 'Asterix' figurine. We chat about the cultural importance of the hit comic book series 'Asterix and Obelix', and how it'll soon come to a screen near you.
The Talking France team also looks at the rules around surrogacy in France, and how the country's strict ban on the practice compares to neighbouring nations.
And finally, we discuss Ryanair's previous threats to pull out of France, as a result of increased taxes in the country's 2025 budget legislation. We give you the latest on the budget airline's services in France, and the changes that could be on the docket.
Talking France is a free podcast made possible by the support of paying members of The Local - you can find out more about becoming a member here.
Extra reading
OPINION: Le Pen's future hangs in the balance, and France is heading for a messy constitutional row
Asterix: Five things to know about France's favourite character
McDonald's targets French villages with plans for 50 new outlets
Reader question: Is McDonald's really healthier in France?
What are France's rules on surrogacy?
What happened Ryanair's threats to pull out of France over 'eco tax'?
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