The rumor mill in European circles is turning toward Mario Draghi as a potential contender for the presidency of the European Council. The Financial Times, citing anonymous sources, notes that Draghi is among those being considered for the role.
Several EU insiders suggest that Draghi could have a strong shot at succeeding Charles Michel if the bloc moves in that direction.
One analyst, Natalie Tocci, director of the Italian Institute of International Affairs, cautions that Draghi’s appeal would be hard to ignore if a compelling push exists behind him. Yet she adds that it remains unclear whether member states are prepared to back him in a race for the post.
There is no certainty that Draghi would actively seek the presidency, even if an offer came his way, according to the same conversations. He might be reluctant to take on the European Council chair if it meant a major shift from his current engagements.
Another source cited in the discussions notes that Draghi does not presently hold one of the EU’s key leadership positions.
Earlier reports indicated that Charles Michel could depart from the presidency sooner than planned. The incumbent has signaled an interest in running in the European Parliament elections scheduled for June, as a candidate for the Reform Movement, which he leads. If he joins the Parliament, he would need to relinquish the European Council presidency, since holding both roles is prohibited under EU rules.
There have also been talks about the possibility that Viktor Orban might not be offered the presidency of the European Council, reflecting broader debates about leadership dynamics within the bloc.