France's municipal elections, electing 34,000 mayors across the country, are under intense scrutiny as a potential bellwether for next year's presidential race. The first round saw strong performances from both the far-right National Rally and the far-left France Unbowed, reflecting deep voter disenchantment with mainstream politics and historically low turnout. The second round on Sunday could clarify which movement holds real momentum, particularly in key races like Marseille, where a National Rally breakthrough would be a landmark moment.

President Macron's centrist coalition faces an uphill battle, with the vote likely underscoring his diminished domestic influence as centrist candidates languish. The outcome may also signal how polarization could shape the national campaign, especially with the far-left poised to play a consequential role.