French and Riviera News Friday 16th December 2022

News

Monitoring of far-right networks ahead of World Cup final - Several dozen people linked to the far-right, were at the centre of tensions on the streets of Nice following Wednesday’s semi final match between France and Morocco. Fireworks were set off and hooded men shouted, "Arabs out" and "We're home" while chasing Moroccan supporters, according to Le Figaro newspaper. Similar clashes were reported in both Paris and Lyon following France’s victory in the semi final. On Thursday France’s Interior minister Gérald Darmanin requested "specific monitoring of far-right networks" ahead of the World Cup Final on Sunday between France and Argentina.

Ciotti attacks mayor of Nice Christian Estrosi - Interviewed on BFMTV, the new president of the Republicans Eric Ciotti, has attacked the mayor of Nice Christian Estrosi, declaring that « Nice is more indebted than Paris » adding that he would not “run away from his responsibilities” in 2026 as President of the Republicans.

Four people charged for fire which destroyed restaurant in Saint-Laurent du Var - Four people believed to be part of an organized gang, have been charged and imprisoned for the fire at a restaurant in Saint-Laurent-du-Var in 2020, against a backdrop of fraud and extortion. The "Uniq'Brasserie" restaurant in Saint-Laurent-du-Var was ravaged by flames in September 2020 before the fire spread to three other nearby establishments, located on the Flots Bleus promenade.

Train Traffic interrupted after branch fell on track - Train traffic between Nice and Ventimiglia has been interrupted after a branch fell on the safety net between Eze and Cap D’Ail on Thursday lunchtime. Traffic returned to normal shortly after 8pm following the incident. Meanwhile, disruptions are expected today and over the weekend on some TGV trains and regional TER services following strike action from signalmen at the SNCF.

Action innocence raises more than 146,000 euros for charity - The Monegasque association “Action innocence” has raised more than 146,000 euros thanks to its sale of Christmas trees. The association organized its annual Christmas tree sale this week to finance its work in protecting children from the dangers of the Internet. HSH Prince Albert II of Monaco and Princess Charlene were there to support the association. The Monegasque NGO, which fights for the protection of children on the Internet, celebrates its 20th anniversary this year.

HSH Prince Albert II of Monaco annual visit to Riviera Radio - HSH Prince Albert II of Monaco visited Riviera Radio on Thursday to give his annual interview and Christmas message to our listeners. The Prince looked back at 2022 with morning presenter Sarah Lycett, sharing his thoughts on the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, sustainable development, the Monaco Red Cross, the 100th anniversary of the death of Prince Albert I celebrated in 2022, his children and wife Princess Charlene. Stay tuned to Riviera Radio over the festive season to hear this exclusive interview.

Exciting new wave of change for Riviera Radio – Finally, Prince Albert’s visit coincided with the news on Thursday of an exciting wave of change for Riviera Radio as Reg Grundy Capital comes onboard. Monaco-based Riviera Radio, the only local radio in English, has been broadcasting to Monaco and the South of France for more than 35 years. Since its entry to the local market, the station has become a trusted companion, advisor, news provider and entertainer. Today through its digital development and website, Riviera Radio attracts a worldwide audience of not just listeners but readers too. The station works with and supports local businesses and the community through its strong on-the-ground relationship with its high-end audience. Riviera Radio will now be owned and controlled by a new structure, which brings 2 successful media forces together.

Reg Grundy Capital was founded by eminent businessman and media icon Reg Grundy AC OBE. Grundy got his start in radio, as a broadcaster and producer of high-profile programming, and went on to build the world’s largest and most successful independently owned production company: Grundy Worldwide. Along with his wife and business partner Joy, Grundy created and owned a library of over 160 top rated television series and movies, produced in over 76 countries, including long-running hits “Neighbours,” “Wheel of Fortune” and “Questions Pour Un Champion.” The successful company sold in 1995, and the popular catalogue of Grundy shows are now part of the Freemantle Media library, still entertaining audiences around the globe. Today, Reg Grundy Capital is headed by Joy Chambers-Grundy, who will join the board of Riviera Radio. Chambers-Grundy says: “We are most honoured and delighted to become part-owners of the unique Riviera Radio, a station I have listened to multiple times in the past. I am excited by this amazing acquisition, just as I know my beloved husband, Reg would be.” Grundy has owned and been involved in a variety of media businesses, including radio, and more recently is behind the Monaco Streaming Film Festival, which brings international media professionals to Monaco.

Paul Kavanagh who has set up and run many successful media businesses across Europe over the last 40 years will remain as shareholder and Managing Director of Riviera Radio.

And Morris Communications, who have sold Riviera Radio in a statement said; "it is indeed nostalgic that I announce today the sale of Riviera Radio, SAM. Our family has owned this wonderful radio station in Monaco since April 12, 2000. It remains the only English-speaking radio station on the French Riviera, broadcasting to Monaco, Nice, Cannes, Antibes and all the way to St. Tropez. Over the last 22 years our family’s relationship with the Principality has evolved and grown from mere acquaintance to enduring friendship and heartfelt admiration. It has been an honour for our family to serve the residents and visitors to your magnificent part of the world. We wish the Grundy Group continued success in the operation of this unique property and extend our gratitude to those Riviera Radio employees who assisted our family there for many years. Thank you, one and all. Best wishes and continued good luck with this endeavour".

Business

The leaders of the 27 member countries of the EU have approved on Thursday a minimum tax of 15% on the profits of multinationals. The measure is scheduled to come into force on December 31st, 2023. French President Emmanuel Macron, at the forefront of this issue for several years, hailed it as "a major step forward for all those who hold as we hold to tax justice".

Twitter accounts belonging to several prominent journalists covering the company's owner, Elon Musk, have had their accounts abruptly suspended. Reporters for the New York Times, CNN and Washington Post are among those who found themselves locked out of their accounts on Thursday evening. A Twitter spokeswoman told tech website The Verge that the ban was related to the live sharing of location data. It comes after Mr Musk vowed to sue the owner of a profile that tracks his jet.

Former US President Donald Trump has launched a collection of digital trading cards depicting him as a superhero, astronaut and Nascar driver. Mr Trump said "These limited edition cards feature amazing ART of my Life & Career!" Last month the billionaire launched his third bid for the White House. He triggered speculation this week after saying he would make a "major announcement". Some commentators had expected him to potentially name a running mate for his presidential campaign. Instead, Mr Trump posted a promotional video on his social-media platform, Truth Social.

World Cup

Lionel Messi has called Julian Alvarez "spectacular" and "extraordinary" after the 22-year-old's double against Croatia helped them into the World Cup final. Manchester City's Alvarez took his goal tally to four, one behind joint top scorers Messi and Kylian Mbappe. Argentina, who last won the World Cup in 1986, face France on Sunday.

Meanwhile, Morocco's football federation (FMRF) has protested to world governing body Fifa about the refereeing during Wednesday's World Cup semi-final defeat by defending champions France. The FMRF is unhappy that Mexican referee Cesar Ramos failed to award a penalty in the first half to the North Africans instead of awarding a spot-kick.

Tomorrow in the World Cup Croatia play Morocco in the play off kick off is at 4pm French time and the final between France and Argentina kicks off at 4pm French time on Sunday.

Sport

Athletics - Jamaica's eight-time Olympic gold medallist Usain Bolt will be honoured with the Lifetime Achievement award at BBC Sports Personality of the Year. 36-year-old Bolt is the fastest sprinter in history and retired in August 2017 as a 19-time global champion.

Formula One - Mick Schumacher is to be the Mercedes reserve driver in 2023. The German, son of seven-time champion Michael Schumacher, lost his race seat for 2023 when the Haas team dropped him in favour of veteran Nico Hulkenberg. Schumacher's Mercedes role will see him work in the team's simulator and be ready to stand in should Lewis Hamilton or George Russell be unable to race.

Tennis - Former Wimbledon champion Boris Becker has been released from prison after serving eight months of his sentence for hiding £2.5m worth of assets and loans to avoid paying debts. The 55-year-old German was jailed for two and a half years in April after being found guilty of four charges. He was released from prison on Thursday morning and has flown to Germany.

Weather

Light cloud with highs of 14 degrees in Nice, Monaco and Cannes. Saint Tropez and Marseille sunny intervals. Highs of 14 degrees in the Var and 11 degrees in the Bouches du Rhone. This evening going down to -1 in Marseille, 7 degrees in Nice and 5 degrees in the Var.

The outlook for the weekend. Sunny intervals tomorrow in the Alpes Maritimes with highs of 16 degrees. Sunny in the Var highs of 14. Sunday, fine in Nice and Monaco highs of 14 and sunny intervals in the Var highs of 13 degrees.  

Sunrise       07.57hr

Sunset        16.53hr

Last local news

Evening Update Friday 20th December 2024

A powerful Mistral storm has swept through Provence, with wind gusts exceeding 150 km/h in some areas. ... Evening Update Friday 20th December 2024 Read More

20/12/2024

French and Riviera News Friday 20th December 2024

France’s recently appointed Prime Minister François Bayrou has promised a new government "before Christmas" and reserves the possibility of using 49.... French and Riviera News Friday 20th December 2024 Read More

20/12/2024

Evening Update Thursday 19th December 2024

A four-day strike at DHL has caused delays in package processing, raising concerns about on-time deliveries for Christmas.... Evening Update Thursday 19th December 2024 Read More

19/12/2024

French and Riviera News Thursday 19th December 2024

French judges in Avignon will today Thursday 19th December, deliver their verdicts in a mass rape case against 51 men that has appalled France and the... French and Riviera News Thursday 19th December 2024 Read More

19/12/2024

Monaco Info and TV Monaco to make way for new television channel

Monaco Info and TV Monaco are set to make way for a new television channel on September 1st of 2025. During the debates on the 2025 preliminary budget... Monaco Info and TV Monaco to make way for new television channel Read More

19/12/2024