Montpellier municipal elections 2026: Mohed Altrad, businessman and president of MHR, confirms his candidacy for mayor

With the 2026 municipal elections approaching in Montpellier, Mohed Altrad, an emblematic figure in the worlds of business and sports, has announced his intention to run for mayor. Backed by prestigious supporters, he aims to put his previous mixed political experiences behind him and position himself as a serious contender in the face of fierce competition.

A return to the political scene

On January 15, at an event held in the Salle du Dièze in Tournezy, 77-year-old Mohed Altrad officially announced his intention to enter the race for mayor of Montpellier in 2026. The event drew approximately 500 people, highlighting the interest the businessman and president of MHR (Montpellier Hérault Rugby) is generating in local politics.

Powerful support

For this new campaign, Mohed Altrad will be able to rely on an eclectic and influential team. Alongside him are former Secretary of State Patricia Mirallès, as well as local political figures such as Stéphanie Jannin and Annie Yague, former members of Philippe Saurel’s team. Jean-François Audrin, mayor of Saint-Georges-d’Orques, and David Nocca, head of the digestive surgery department, have also expressed their support. Senator Jean-Pierre Grand completes this array of key allies.

A Mixed Political Past

This candidacy marks Mohed Altrad’s second significant foray into politics. In 2020, he ran in the municipal elections, obtaining 13.3% of the vote in the first round before forming an alliance with the “Nous sommes” (We Are) movement, thus securing 18.1% in the second round. Elected to the opposition against Michaël Delafosse, Mohed Altrad left office in September 2024 after a term characterized by notorious absenteeism from municipal council meetings.

Challenges and priorities Despite stepping down from the city council, Mohed Altrad remained actively involved in important debates, particularly those concerning the state of the Ovalie stadium. The lively discussions with the Montpellier Métropole on the stadium’s pitch demonstrate his commitment to sports and the city’s infrastructure. Altrad even raised the possibility of building a new stadium or relocating it to Béziers.