NEWS
Government in the Forming - New Prime Minister Michel Barnier is continuing consultations to form his government, meeting with various political leaders, including Horizons and MoDem, with plans to consult left-wing figures soon. Far-right National Rally (RN) is adopting a cautious stance, not supporting automatic censure but placing Barnier's government "under surveillance." Meanwhile, Barnier faces pressure from unions like the CFDT (the seconds largest French Union) to suspend the pension reform for further discussions, although he remains open to debate without fully overturning the reform.
La Turbie Celebrates Cycling - At 69 years-old, Bernard Hinault remains a beloved figure in French cycling. The village of La Turbie celebrated him with a 7x5 meter mural depicting his portrait and a Michelin map, honouring his legacy as a five-time Tour de France winner. The unveiling, attended by Hinault, H.S.H. Prince Albert II, and local officials, highlighted the mural's importance in the village's cycling culture.
Estrosi to Join the Government ? - Nice Mayor Christian Estrosi has ruled out joining the next government, stating his priority is his city. While he declined any potential ministerial role, he acknowledged that members of his party, Horizons, could be part of the future government under Prime Minister Michel Barnier. Estrosi expressed support for Barnier, praising him as a figure of consensus and dialogue.
Closed Beaches - Due to Sunday’s heavy rains, swimming has been banned on 15 beaches until Wednesday morning, September 11, because of hydraulic system overflows in Antibes - Juan-les-Pins. The affected beaches include popular spots like Fontonne, Salis, and Juan-les-Pins. Authorities are conducting bacteriological checks to ensure water quality for swimmers.
A8 Motorway Accidents - A Vinci Autoroute patrol vehicle has been hit while protecting a stopped truck near the Mougins interchange on the A8 motorway, marking the 33rd such incident in 2024. The patrol officer followed safety protocols and avoided injury, but the driver who struck the vehicle was hospitalized. Vinci plans to file a complaint and raise awareness via highway signs. Another accident near Italy caused temporary traffic disruptions this morning on the A8 motorway.
Drug-Related Vendetta - A man, suspected of a drug-related vendetta, has been arrested for attempted murder after a victim was found shot multiple times on the 30th of August in an apartment in Nice. The suspect, previously convicted of drug trafficking, was apprehended near Paris and is now in custody. The 25-year-old victim, also known for drug offenses, remains in a coma.
Projectiles Thrown into Playground - Projectiles like stones and glass bottles have been thrown on the 3rd and 5th of September into the playground of Saint-Loup Elementary School in Marseille, raising concerns among parents about their children's safety. Despite closing off part of the playground, worries persist, and some parents have filed police reports. Similar incidents occurred last year at another Marseille school, prompting safety measures.
BUSINESS
More local authorities in England will gain powers to control bus services, including routes, timetables, and fares, under new legislation. The goal is to improve public transport with a franchising system similar to London's, though concerns about funding and service cuts remain. This move is part of a "bus revolution" to reverse the decline in bus services since deregulation in the 1980s.
Aldi UK reports shoppers are "trading up" to more expensive own-label products like Wagyu steak as cost-of-living pressures ease. The supermarket saw a 16% sales increase in 2023, but its growth is slowing as competitors fight back with price-match campaigns and loyalty schemes. Aldi plans to open 23 new stores and focus on premium products, especially for the Christmas season.
And - Trade unions have criticized the government's decision to cut winter fuel payments for most pensioners, claiming it disproportionately affects vulnerable groups while leaving the wealthy unaffected. Prime Minister Keir Starmer defended the cut as a tough but necessary measure to address a financial deficit. Charities and unions have raised concerns about the welfare of pensioners facing rising energy costs this winter.
SPORTS
The Paris 2024 Paralympics ended with a lively closing ceremony at the Stade de France, despite heavy rain. French electronic artists entertained 4,400 athletes from 168 delegations. IPC president Andrew Parsons praised France for setting a "benchmark" for future Games.
In the final top 5, China remains at the top with 94 gold medals, Great Britain finished 2nd with 49, the US have 36, the Netherlands finished fourth with 27, and Brazil came fifth with 25 as France slipped to 8th place with only 19 gold medals.
Tennis - Jannik Sinner says it "means so much" to win the US Open after a "very difficult" period following the controversy over his positive tests for a banned substance. The world number one stormed past American Taylor Fritz in Sunday's final to claim his second Grand Slam of the year.
Golf - England's Matt Wallace held his nerve to win the European Masters in Switzerland after a play-off against Spain's Alfredo Garcia-Heredia.
Rugby Union - South Africa captain Siya Kolisi has rejoined Durban-based Sharks after Racing 92 terminated his contract on Sunday.
Rugby League - Leeds Rhinos thrashed Women's Super League bottom side Featherstone Rovers 52-12 to move up to second in the table behind newly-crowned League Leaders' Shield winners St Helens.
WEATHER
Bright and clear throughout the day with moderate to strong winds. Temperatures are getting cooler, with highs of 26 degrees in Toulon and Marseille, 27 degrees in Nice and Cannes, 28 degrees in Saint-Tropez.
Tonight, clear skies with lows of 18 degrees with strong winds in the Var.
Outlook for tomorrow, fine and bright throughout the day with highs of 28 degrees and strong winds in the Bouches-du-Rhône.
BEACH WEATHER
The sea is getting more refreshing, with temperatures of 25 degrees. the UV levels are of 6 and the air temperatures are of 28 degrees in Saint-Tropez with moderate winds.
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