Bardella's romance with Italian princess reshapes political landscape

French far-right leader Jordan Bardella is reportedly in a relationship with Italian socialite Princess Maria Carolina of Bourbon-Two Sicilies, as revealed by celebrity magazine Paris Match. The couple was photographed recently on holiday in Corsica, with the magazine declaring it an unexpected romance. Rumors of their relationship began circulating in January when they were seen together at a Paris event marking the 200th anniversary of Le Figaro newspaper.

Bardella, the 30-year-old president of the Rassemblement National (RN) party, has previously deflected questions about his private life, asserting it was his "last space of liberty." However, the Paris Match article suggests a decision has been made to make the relationship public. Bardella is poised to run for the French presidency next year, contingent on a court ruling in July regarding the eligibility of historic party leader Marine Le Pen, who faces a conviction for misuse of EU parliamentary funds. Polls indicate that either RN candidate stands a good chance of winning.

Press commentators have noted the importance of Bardella entering the presidential campaign with clarity about his personal life, especially regarding potential backlash from poorer voters concerning his relationship with an aristocrat. Princess Maria Carolina, 22, is the daughter of Prince Carlo, Duke of Castro, and is involved in various cultural and humanitarian initiatives. The couple's contrasting backgrounds—Bardella's rise from humble beginnings and Maria Carolina's aristocratic lineage—have been highlighted, with Paris Match describing them as a "couple reinventing courtly love – 21st Century-style."

The relationship could provide Bardella with a unique narrative, appealing to both traditional and modern voters. However, it also exposes him to scrutiny regarding wealth disparities, which may affect his support among lower-income constituents.

What to watch: The upcoming court ruling in July regarding Marine Le Pen's eligibility will be crucial for Bardella's presidential aspirations.