News
School stabbing - French President Emmanuel Macron has praised the courage of teachers who intervened during a fatal stabbing at a private school in Nantes, western France. A teenage girl was killed and three other students were injured in the attack, which occurred at Notre-Dame-de-Toutes-Aides school on Thursday afternoon. The suspect, reportedly restrained by a teacher, was arrested at the scene. Emergency services and police, including army officers, responded swiftly, and the school, which has around 2,000 students, was evacuated. Psychological support is being provided, and the area around the school remains closed off. Authorities are still investigating the attacker’s motives, with more details expected in the coming days.
Protest planned outside Decathlon in Nice – In local news animal rights activists are planning a protest tomorrow Saturday 26th April outside the Decathlon store in Nice Lingostière. Demonstrators are denouncing the store’s sale of live crabs used for fishing. The demonstration will take place at the entrance of the store’s parking lot (592 Bd du Mercantour), where campaigners will hold signs and hand out flyers to raise awareness among shoppers. Protesters argue that live bait fishing is cruel and inhumane and are urging Decathlon to stop selling both live fish and crabs. A petition launched in 2024 has already gathered over 16,000 signatures, calling for the store to end what activists call “torture for sport.” Despite past promises to shift toward artificial solutions, Decathlon continues to sell live bait. Activists are demanding immediate action, saying: “Torturing animals is not a sport or a leisure activity.”
New police station project - Residents of Nice are getting an exclusive first look at one of the city’s most anticipated projects—the new police station set to become a European first. Tomorrow, Saturday, April 26th, at 9:45am the Mayor of Nice Christian Estrosi will lead a guided tour of the future 50,000 m² security hub, located on the former Saint Roch Hospital site. The groundbreaking complex will unite the National and Municipal Police under one roof, bringing together over 2,000 officers to boost coordination and public safety. This rare behind-the-scenes visit offers locals a glimpse into the construction site and the future of policing in the city.
Prince Albert II of Monaco and Princess Carloine visit the Ardenne region - Prince Albert II of Monaco and Princess Caroline have been visiting the Ardennes region this week, focusing on the historical ties between the Grimaldi family and the area. The visit highlights the rich history of the medieval region and its links to the Grimaldi’s since the 18th century. During the trip, they will unveil signs marking important Grimaldi historic sites. The trip to the Ardennes will be cut short as HSH Prince Albert of Monaco and Princess Charlene will attend the funeral of Pope Francis. Along with other world leaders like King and Queen of Spain, Prince William, Emmanuel Macron, the royal couple will be present at the Vatican on Saturday morning. The ceremony will begin at 10am at St. Peter’s Basilica.
The Champagne and Oyster Cycling Club of Monaco prepares for the Saint-Tropez to Monaco charity bike ride – The 11th edition of the Champagne and Oyster Cycle Club (COCC) ride from Saint-Tropez to Monaco will take place this Sunday, 27th April, bringing together cyclists, celebrities, and philanthropists for a day of sport, fundraising, and celebration. The event will conclude with a lively open-air after-party in the heart of Monaco. This annual charity ride, which has raised around €100,000 each year, supports two important causes: the Princess Charlene of Monaco Foundation, which focuses on water safety and drowning prevention around the world, and the My Name’5 Doddie Foundation, UK-based charity funding research into motor neuron disease.
Cyclists will depart from Saint-Tropez at 8 am, aiming to arrive in Monaco by the late afternoon. The event will culminate in the COCC Street Party at Slammers Pub, an open-invitation celebration from 2 pm until late. Guests can enjoy a BBQ by Chilli No. 5, live music and plenty of refreshments. The after-party promises to be a festive conclusion to the charitable ride. Tickets for the COCC Street Party are available. Guests are encouraged to arrive early to enjoy the atmosphere and support the ongoing fundraising effort.
The COCC was created in 2011 by seven friends who shared a passion for cycling and philanthropy. Their charity ride along the Côte d’Azur has grown significantly since then, attracting participation from the likes of Prince Albert II himself and other sporting icons. Sadly, this year’s ride will be marked by the absence of Eddie Jordan, who was a frequent and cherished participant. Riders and supporters will be thinking of him as they pedal along the Riviera coastline.
Official wine supplier of this year’s Cannes Film Festival – It’s been reported that Château Margüi, the vineyard owned by Star Wars creator George Lucas, will be the official wine supplier at the 2025 Cannes Film Festival. Located in Châteauvert, the estate will showcase its organic wines throughout the festival, served during the opening and closing ceremonies, gala dinners, and more. With 21 hectares of vineyards across 28 plots, Château Margüi produces complex blends. The partnership highlights shared values between the estate and the festival: a commitment to excellence, French elegance, and environmental awareness. The wines will also carry a collector’s appeal, as bottles will feature both the Cannes Film Festival logo and "Skywalker Vineyards" on the label.
May Festival - The May Festival, a cherished tradition celebrating the arrival of spring and the culture of Nice, kicks off with a special event in the Cimiez Arena Gardens. This year marks the 100th anniversary of La Ciamada Nissarda. Mayor Christian Estrosi will today officially launch this year’s edition which will feature a vibrant mix of traditional music, dance, fine food, and entertainment.
Glowing fish in Nice – Finally, if you’ve strolled through Place Masséna in Nice recently, you may have looked up and wondered: what’s with all the glowing fish? It’s not a prank—80 illuminated, motorized fish sculptures are now hanging under the arcades, creating a dazzling display that’s turning heads and lighting up social media. The outdoor art installation, called Ichtus, was created by artist Daniel Mestanza and launched by the City of Nice. The exhibit is part of the lead-up to the UN Ocean Conference (UNOC), coming to Nice’s port June 9–13. It’s meant to feel like a dive into the ocean right from the city streets. Catch the fish at Place Masséna until June 2, and from June 4–18 along the Quai des États-Unis and Cours Jacques Chirac.
Business
China has urged the US to lift tariffs on Chinese goods, saying it's a key step if President Trump is serious about ending the trade war. Despite US claims, Chinese officials say no new trade talks have taken place. Tensions have escalated, with China recently returning US-made Boeing planes in retaliation. Trump has hinted at easing tariffs, saying they “will come down substantially, but it won’t be zero.”
Meanwhile, the value of US President Donald Trump's cryptocurrency has soared to over 70% after he promised to host two exclusive events for top investors. According to the cryptocurrency website, the 220 largest holders will be invited to a private gala dinner with President Donald Trump on May 22nd—billed as the “most EXCLUSIVE INVITATION in the world.” Despite the spike, the coin remains below its January peak of over $74. The digital token is one of several crypto ventures tied to President Donald Trump, who has dubbed himself the “crypto president.”
And - The UK is now open to a possible youth visa agreement with the EU, a shift ahead of next month’s summit aimed at resetting post-Brexit ties. While Labour previously said it had "no plans" for such a scheme, it’s become a key ask from the EU in talks to improve cooperation. Downing Street has dropped its outright opposition, declining to comment further on ongoing negotiations. Over 60 Labour MPs have backed calls for a tailored visa deal for under-30s from both sides.
Sport
Formula One - Formula 1 bosses have agreed in principle to allow underperforming engine manufacturers a way to catch up under the 2026 rules. However, no deal was reached on reducing the amount of electric energy used during races—a proposal aimed at preventing cars from losing power on long straights. Both topics will be reviewed further in upcoming meetings with engine suppliers. The 2026-2030 regulations will keep the 1.6L turbo hybrid engines but simplify their design. They’ll also increase electric power use to 50% (up from 20%) and switch to sustainable fuels.
Darts - Gerwyn Price has claimed victory on Night 12 of the Premier League Darts in Liverpool, beating Luke Humphries 6-4 in the final. The Welshman, who averaged over 100 in all three matches, now sits third in the table. It's his third win of the season, following triumphs in Dublin and Nottingham.
Boxing - Chris Eubank Jr has spoken about his strained relationship with his father and the pain of losing his brother, Sebastian, ahead of his high-profile fight against Conor Benn this Saturday at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. Eubank Sr, who famously fought Nigel Benn, is not expected to attend due to ongoing tensions with his son.
Football – In the FA Cup Semi finals tomorrow Crystal Palace are at home to Aston Villa with a 6.15pm French time kick off. In the Premier Leage action Chelsea play Everton, Brighton are at home to West Ham Newcastle face Ipswich, Southampton play Fulham and Wolves face Leicester. On Sunday, Bournemouth play Manchester United and Liverpool are at home to Tottenham.
Weather
Mainly fine with moderate to strong winds in the Var. Highs of 19 degrees in Monaco, Nice, San Remo and Saint-Tropez. 21° in Vence. This evening going down to 11 degrees with clear skies.
The outlook for the weekend. Sunny intervals on Saturday with light thundery showers forecast for Sunday. Highs of 19-20 degrees. Heading into next week expected to be fine and dry with temperatures rising at least until May 1st.
Sunrise 06.31am
Sunset 08.25pm
Weather elsewhere
London 16° sunny intervals
Paris 20° sunny
Dublin 13° light rain.
Beach weather forecast
Saint Tropez – Air temperature 19° feels like 22°. Sea temperature 16°. Fine and sunny. UV level 6.
Nice - Air temperature 19° feels like 21°. Sea temperature 16°. Fine and sunny. UV level 6.
And Finally
Bad habits like smoking, heavy drinking, and lack of exercise start affecting health as early as age 36, researchers have found. A study tracking people born in 1959 showed those who continued these habits in youth faced worse physical and mental health later on. The research highlights the importance of addressing risky behaviours early to prevent long-term damage. Smoking was linked to mental health issues, lack of exercise to physical health problems, and heavy drinking to both. While making healthier choices later in life helps, it's best to adopt good habits sooner. The study, published in Annals of Medicine, shows that bad habits and poor health often feed into each other. The findings are most relevant to those born in the late 1950s and early 1960s, with different lifestyle factors affecting younger generations.
Mainly fine with moderate to strong winds in the Var. Highs of 19 degrees in Monaco, Nice, San Remo and Saint-Tropez....
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French President Emmanuel Macron has praised the courage of teachers who intervened during a fatal stabbing at a private school in Nantes, western Fra...
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The 11th edition of the Champagne and Oyster Cycle Club (COCC) ride from Saint-Tropez to Monaco will take place this Sunday, 27th April, bringing toge...
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A student at a school in Brittany has died after being stabbed by another student this afternoon. Three other pupils were also injured in the incident...
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SNCF unions are warning of a "dark week" ahead as a strike looms over the May 8th bank holiday weekend. Fabien Villedieu, federal secretary of the SUD...
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