French authorities investigate online racial abuse aimed at French judo star Teddy Riner

French authorities are investigating online racial abuse directed at French judo star Teddy Riner, according to a statement posted by the Paris Public Prosecutor's Office on Instagram. The investigation, conducted by the Central Office for the Fight Against Crimes against Humanity and Hate Crimes (OCLCH), follows Riner's public concern about the rise of far-right extremism in France.

Riner, a multiple Olympic and world champion, expressed his distress over the increasing prevalence of hateful and racist messages on social media, particularly after his comments on September 16. Following his remarks, Riner posted on X that numerous tweets, posts, comments, and messages of a hateful or racist nature had been circulating.

Paris Saint-Germain, the club Riner joined on a contract until 2028, condemned the abuse and reaffirmed their support for the athlete.