Fellow francophile Woody Allen famously said, “Eighty percent of success is showing up.” It’s a deceptively simple idea, but when applied to the recent UEFA Nations League match between France and Israel, it takes on profound meaning. The game itself—a lackluster 0-0 draw—didn’t matter.

To me, what mattered was who showed up.

French President Emmanuel Macron, alongside former presidents François Hollande and Nicolas Sarkozy, took their seats in the Stade de France not to watch a gripping match but to send a powerful message. By showing up, they turned an ordinary game into an extraordinary statement: against antisemitism, against division, and for the values that define the French Republic.

It’s easy to underestimate the power of presence, but history tells us it’s often the simplest gestures that carry the most weight. Macron and his predecessors weren’t there to cheer for goals; they were there to show the world that leadership starts with standing firm, even when the stakes are high and the risks tangible.

Their presence was a direct response to recent events. The attacks on Israeli soccer fans in Amsterdam had heightened tensions across Europe, and the decision to proceed with the match came amid calls for its cancellation. Yet, these leaders showed up—not to grandstand, but to make it clear that France would not be cowed by hate or fear.

Allen’s quote about showing up is more than a quip; it’s a philosophy of resilience. In this context, it’s about being there when it’s easier to stay away, about making a stand when neutrality feels safer. Macron, Hollande, and Sarkozy demonstrated that leadership isn’t just about words—it’s about actions, even as simple as taking a seat in a stadium.

Their unity also carried symbolic weight. These three men, often defined by their political differences, put rivalry aside to confront a common challenge. It was a reminder that some moments demand we prioritize what unites us over what divides us.

The Stade de France, with its reduced crowd and heavy security, became a stage for something far more significant than soccer. Over 4,000 police officers and 1,600 stadium staff were deployed to ensure safety, reflecting the seriousness of the moment. Despite protests and a low turnout, the leaders’ presence conveyed calm, strength, and solidarity.

In a world increasingly defined by division, this gesture stood out. It wasn’t about the game—it was about showing up when it mattered most. Their presence turned a potentially contentious event into a moment of collective resolve.