Cyril Hanouna, the dynamic host of the popular French talk show Touche pas à mon poste, is causing quite the buzz with his temporary absence from the show for the first time to compete at the French Padel Championships. Set to take place this weekend, Hanouna’s commitment to the sport has taken priority on January 31, 2025, as he joins his fellow Casa Padel teammates to defend their title.
“I’m sorry, my darlings... This only happens once a year. I will, of course, be back on Monday! With my friends from Casa Padel, we’re set to defend our championship title,” he stated, addressing his fans on-air just prior to his absence. Hanouna is not just any casual player; he holds the impressive position of the 77th best padel player in France, demonstrating his deep commitment to the sport which combines elements of tennis and squash.
Hanouna's love for padel ignited surprisingly three years ago when he first tried the sport at the insistence of friends, originally coming from a background of playing tennis on Sunday mornings. “I didn't know anything about it. I first went for fun, and now it's become my passion,” he recounted, illuminating how his interest evolved from casual play to serious competition.
Despite being one of France's most recognized television personalities, Hanouna has made no secret of his devotion to the game. “This is my absolute passion; I play more padel than I do television,” he mentioned during interviews, clearly expressing his affection for the sport. His fervor for padel has not only compelled him to prioritize tournaments over his television commitments but also reflects his personality as someone who thrives on competition and excitement.
While Hanouna is busy on the courts, viewers of Touche pas à mon poste will have to settle for a best-of compilation—an alternative program prepared for his absence. Over the years, Hanouna has continually entertained audiences with his quirks and lively discussions, but his unforeseen steps away from the stage signal the complexity of balancing various passions and responsibilities.
On the broader stage, the future of Touche pas à mon poste looms uncertain as the program approaches its official conclusion on February 28, 2025. Reports indicate Hanouna is engaged in discussions for potential moves to M6, raising eyebrows among fans and the media alike about what this means for his career. Judging from the chatter around his possible transfer, opinions are rife, especially among those who work at M6. Notably, some have expressed concern about Hanouna's influence, prompting discussions on whether his arrival might impact the editorial quality at M6.
“I haven't signed anything yet,” Hanouna confirmed, as he awaits the outcome of deliberations surrounding the future of C8. The decision from the Conseil d'État on C8 is expected shortly after February 14, giving Hanouna time to contemplate his next steps.
For now, padel continues to play a significant role in Hanouna’s life, enabling him to channel his competitive spirit beyond the television screen. “I wake up padel, I eat padel, I sleep padel,” he once joked, signifying how embedded the sport has become within his daily routine. It’s clear this sport serves as more than merely another hobby—it’s become central to his identity.
With his return to television confirmed for next week, all eyes will surely be on Hanouna—not just for his hosting, but as he reflects on his experiences during this hiatus from his beloved show. Until then, fans and sports enthusiasts alike will be cheering for Hanouna to carry forth his victorious spirit at the Padel Championships.