President Emmanuel Macron appointed Bayrou and Barnier after the youngest Prime Minister in the Fifth Republic, Gabriel Attal, who was only 34 years old when appointed in January 2024.

He surpasses his predecessor, Michel Barnier, who resigned on December 5, 2024, at 73 years, 10 months, and 26 days old.

Bayrou had previously expressed skepticism about appointing such a young Prime Minister, highlighting the need for experience in governance during challenging times.

François Bayrou has made history by becoming the oldest Prime Minister in the history of the Fifth Republic, taking office on April 21, 2025, at the age of 73 years, 10 months, and 27 days.

Barnier's tenure was notably brief, making him the shortest-serving Prime Minister in the Fifth Republic, as he held office for only three months.

Bayrou's appointment comes during a period of political instability in France, characterized by a fragmented Parliament lacking a clear majority.

Since the summer of 2024, France has faced significant political challenges, with a Parliament that has been unable to establish a stable majority.

Historically, the average age of Prime Ministers at the time of their appointment in the Fifth Republic has been 54 years.

Notably, no Prime Minister over the age of 70 has previously led the government of the Fifth Republic.

Attal's appointment raised concerns among some about the lack of experience in governance, particularly during a time of significant national challenges.