An image of French Sports Minister Amélie Oudéa-Castéra kissing President Emmanuel Macron during the Olympics opening ceremony has sparked a social media uproar. The photograph captures Oudéa-Castéra embracing Macron with one hand around his neck before planting a kiss below his ear. The image quickly went viral, with many users reacting to the intimate gesture. Some viewers noted the awkwardness of the moment, pointing out that Prime Minister Gabriel Attal seemed to look away from the scene.
Social media reactions varied. One user on X criticized the photo as “indecent” and not fitting for the dignitaries involved. Another user speculated about Macron’s wife Brigitte’s potential reaction, while a third remarked on Attal’s uncomfortable demeanor: “Gabriel Attal, he pretends to look elsewhere! He doesn’t know where to stand!”
Making a mountain out of a molehill?
Others argued that the fuss over the kiss was overblown, suggesting that Oudéa-Castéra’s gesture was simply an expression of enthusiasm for France hosting the Olympics. “The French are known for kissing on both cheeks as a greeting. Vive La France!” one user tweeted.
The photo was first published by the French magazine Madame Figaro, which described the kiss as “strange.”
French sports minister an attention seeker?
The New York Post reported that the magazine also highlighted Oudéa-Castéra’s history of seeking attention, noting her recent controversial actions.
Earlier this month, Oudéa-Castéra had tried to alleviate concerns about Olympic water quality by diving into the Seine River. Despite her efforts, events such as the men’s triathlon were postponed due to ongoing water quality issues.
In January, Oudéa-Castéra briefly served as the education minister but was removed from the position after less than a month following criticism of government-run public schools.
The kiss has certainly added to the controversies surrounding the Sports Minister as the Olympics continue to capture global attention.
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