French far-right candidate Jordan Bardella is in a romantic relationship with Italian Princess Maria-Caroline, according to Paris Match magazine, which published photos of the couple during their recent holiday in Corsica.
Under the headline "the romance no one expected," the French magazine appears to confirm rumors of a relationship between Bardella and Maria-Caroline, which had begun circulating after their joint appearance in Paris for the 200th anniversary of the newspaper Le Figaro.
According to the article, the couple represents a strong social and cultural contrast: on one side, a politician from a modest working-class family, and on the other, a princess of aristocratic descent, raised between Paris, Rome, and Monaco. The magazine also highlights that they are suspected to have first met in Monaco during last year's Formula 1 Grand Prix.
Jordan Bardella has previously stated that his private life remains "his last space of freedom," avoiding comments on reports about his relationship. Following the news publication, political analysts have emphasized that this development could also impact his image during the electoral campaign.
Maria-Caroline is the 22-year-old daughter of Prince Carlo and part of the Bourbon-Two Sicilies family, a historic dynasty that ruled southern Italy in the 19th century. She is also known for her cultural and philanthropic activities, as well as her presence on social networks.