News
First local case of West Nile Virus in France in 2025 detected in the Var – Regional health officials have confirmed the first locally transmitted West Nile virus (WNV) case in France this year, diagnosed in mid-July in Hyères, in the Var region. West Nile virus is transmitted primarily by Culex mosquitoes that acquire the virus from infected birds. While France has experienced occasional cases in recent years, the 2025 detection serves as a reminder that the virus remains common in parts of Southern Europe, particularly around the Mediterranean. Symptoms in humans can range from mild fever and rash to severe neurological conditions such as meningitis, particularly affecting older adults or those with weakened immune systems. Health experts emphasize ongoing mosquito surveillance and public education on prevention, especially avoiding mosquito bites during peak activity periods at dawn and dusk. The public is encouraged to use insect repellent, install window screens, and eliminate stagnant water sources that breed mosquitoes.
Drone caught delivering phones and cannabis to Grasse prison – In other news, French police have arrested two men near the prison in Grasse after intercepting a drone carrying banned goods. The device was loaded with mobile phones and cannabis, items strictly prohibited within correctional facilities. Drone smuggling has increasingly become a concern for prison authorities worldwide, as they are able to bypass traditional security measures. The incident in Grasse on Wednesday highlights ongoing challenges in preventing illegal deliveries to inmates, which can fuel crime and disorder inside prisons. Authorities have intensified monitoring around prison perimeters, including deploying anti-drone technology and increasing patrols. The arrested individuals face serious charges related to drug trafficking and unauthorized drone operation, and investigations continue to determine if this was part of a larger smuggling network.
EasyJet launches new UK route from Nice next March – Airline company EasyJet has announced this week the launch of a brand-new UK route from Nice Côte d’Azur Airport, starting in March 2026. This route will connect Nice with a UK destination that has not previously been served from the French Riviera’s busiest airport. Tickets for the new service will start at an affordable €35, making travel between the south of France and the UK even more accessible. This expansion underlines easyJet’s commitment to growing its network and strengthening its presence in one of Europe’s most popular leisure destinations. Although the exact UK destination remains undisclosed, the airline hinted it will be a major city or regional hub, aiming to attract both holidaymakers and business travellers. The move also supports Nice Airport’s ongoing efforts to increase connectivity and passenger numbers following the recovery from pandemic-related disruptions.
Saint-Tropez beach closed to swimming due to sanitation incident – The Graniers beach in Saint-Tropez has been closed to swimming since Wednesday afternoon following an incident in the local sanitation network. Authorities report that runoff from the incident has affected the swimming area, prompting the closure. The sandy cove, located near the marine cemetery and along the coastal path, will remain closed until water quality tests show safe conditions. City officials have installed signage to alert visitors about the pollution and to help prevent any health risks. This closure marks the latest in a series of beach restrictions in the gulf, though unlike previous closures, this one is due to a technical issue rather than the weather.
Tap water unsafe to drink in Figanières, in the Var – Meanwhile, the local council of the village of Figanières near Draguignan in the Var has issued a warning to residents against drinking tap water due to contamination. Vulnerable people are strictly prohibited from using the tap water unless it has been boiled for at least five minutes beforehand. Several nearby neighbourhoods are also concerned. The village of Figanières shares its water supply network with nearby Callas, which has faced similar contamination since Sunday. In response, a bottled water distribution was held at the Figanières Community Centre on Wednesday. Further distribution details will be announced soon. Residents are urged to stay updated on local developments and follow official guidance on the town council’s website.
Hilltop village aims to become the “Most Beautiful Rooftop on the Riviera” - Nestled on a stunning cliffside overlooking the Tinée valley, the tiny mountain village of Roubion (population of around 120) is embarking on an ambitious makeover to become the “most beautiful rooftop on the Riviera.”
Roubion plans to transform its modest parking area into a sweeping panoramic terrace, featuring landscaped viewpoints and seating areas showcasing the region’s natural beauty. This initiative aims to attract more visitors looking for stunning views and a true mountain experience less than two hours from the Mediterranean coast. Local officials hope this development will boost tourism, provide economic opportunities, and raise the profile of smaller inland villages on the Côte d’Azur. The project is also designed with environmental sustainability in mind, respecting the fragile mountain ecosystem and using locally sourced materials. Visitors can expect a perfect blend of serenity, nature, and spectacular views of the rugged valley below.
Monaco Yacht Club and Pierre Casiraghi win prestigious Admiral’s Cup - After more than 20 years of absence from the competition, the Monaco Yacht Club and its vice-president, Pierre Casiraghi, have won the famous Admiral’s Cup a first-ever victory for Monaco. Casiraghi and Peter Harrison led their teams on the boats Jolt 6 and Jolt 3 to victory. They finished the final race, the Rolex Fastnet Race, in Cherbourg-en-Cotentin on Tuesday evening. The competition started on July 19 in the waters between the Isle of Wight and mainland Britain. The teams raced in several events, including the 160-mile Channel Race and six coastal races, before finishing with the challenging Fastnet Race. The win marks Monaco’s strong return to the competition after more than two decades.
Michael Jackson’s “Iconic” sock worn at Nice concert sells for €6,200 – Finally, a glittering sock worn by the Michael Jackson during his legendary July 27th, 1997, concert in Nice has recently sold at auction in Nîmes for an impressive €6,200. The rare memorabilia piece from Michael Jackson’s History World Tour caught the eye of collectors and fans around the world, representing a tangible connection to one of the most influential artists of all time. The sock, known for its sparkle and unique design, was part of Jackson’s iconic stage costume. The auction took place on Wednesday July 30th, 2025, attracting intense bidding interest.
Business
U.S. President Donald Trump has announced a 15% tariff on imports from South Korea, calling it part of a “full and complete trade deal” just ahead of a 1 August deadline. As part of the deal, South Korea will invest $350 billion in the US, including $150 billion for shipbuilding, addressing American defence and industry concerns. In return, cars and semiconductors will be taxed at 15%, but steel and aluminium face a higher 50% global rate. Notably, South Korea avoided U.S. demands to open up its rice and beef markets, a key win for its agricultural sector. Trump’s sweeping tariffs have drawn global criticism for raising consumer prices and unsettling markets—but he insists they protect American jobs and industry.
Meanwhile, carmaker Ford says it expects to lose around $2 billion this year due to tariffs, a heavier hit than previously forecast, despite building most of its vehicles in the U.S. The carmaker paid an extra $800 million in duties last quarter alone and also reported losses from cutting an electric vehicle program. While Ford’s U.S.-based manufacturing has cushioned some of the blow, the company cites persistently high tariffs on parts from Mexico and Canada, plus U.S. levies on imported aluminium and steel. Ford isn’t alone. GM recently reported over $1 billion in tariff costs, and Volkswagen has taken a $1.5 billion hit. Ford shares dipped 1.5% in after-hours trading following the news.
And - Meta is reporting a massive jump in profits and it’s betting big on artificial intelligence. The tech giant, which owns Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp, posted $18.3 billion in profit last quarter, a 36% rise, as revenue climbed 22% to $47.5 billion. But spending is also soaring, up 12% to $27 billion, with billions now flowing into AI infrastructure, including servers, data centres, and ultra-competitive pay packages. CEO Mark Zuckerberg says Meta is developing “AI Superintelligence” to solve complex problems and “personal superintelligence” to assist users with everyday tasks like remembering anniversaries and booking gifts.
Sport
Swimming - French star Léon Marchand has stunned the swimming world once again, smashing the 200m individual medley world record at the World Aquatics Championships in Singapore. Great Britain's Duncan Scott also impressed, finishing third in the same race securing his spot in the final.
Cricket – The big headline in cricket is that Ben Stokes is out of the series decider against India at The Oval with a serious shoulder injury. The injury comes as a crushing blow for England as they chase their first Test series win over India since 2018. Stokes has been immense this summer, player of the match in the last two Tests, but a torn shoulder muscle ends his run. It raises serious questions ahead of the Ashes in November, where his absence could be felt even more deeply. Play starts today at midday French time.
Football - NFL legend Tom Brady has taken aim at both Wayne Rooney and Birmingham City’s players in a new Amazon Prime documentary which is to be aired tomorrow, Friday 1st August. Brady, a minority owner at the club, questions Rooney’s work ethic during his short-lived spell as manager, saying: “I don’t have great instincts on that.” He also brands players as “lazy and entitled” after watching training in late 2023. Rooney lasted just 83 days in charge, taking the team from sixth to 20th in the Championship before being sacked. Brady later admits the club made “sweeping changes” too quickly, despite advice to hold steady. The series shows Brady out of his depth early on, even struggling to find the training ground—and asking if Aston Villa are in the Premier League.
Athletics - World Athletics has confirmed that, from September 1st, all athletes wishing to compete in the female category at world-ranking competitions must undergo a one-time gene test to determine biological sex. A negative test allows competition in the female category. A positive result means the athlete cannot compete in world-ranking female events—but can take part in other or open categories. The rule applies to top events, including the World Championships in Tokyo, beginning September 13th. World Athletics president Lord Coe said the move is about protecting fairness, stating: “Gender cannot trump biology.” World Boxing introduced similar rules in May.
Rugby Union - There’s growing momentum behind a potential future British and Irish Lions tour to France, with the French Rugby Federation saying it wants to "build something long-term" with the iconic touring side. Talks are already underway for warm-up fixtures ahead of the women’s 2027 tour and men’s 2029 tour to New Zealand. But for now, attention turns to this weekend as the decisive Third Test between Australia and the British and Irish Lions kicks off this Saturday in Sydney.
Weather
Good morning from the port of Monaco, today clear skies and plenty of sunshine. Highs ranging from 28 to 32 degrees. 28 degrees in Nice, Cannes, and Monaco. Reaching 32 degrees in Saint-Tropez and 30 degrees in Marseille with a dry inland breeze and a light coastal wind. This evening going down to 19 to 21 degrees across the region. With clear skies.
The outlook for tomorrow and heading into the weekend. Sunny with highs of 28-29 degrees and a gentle to moderate breeze.
Sunrise 06.18am
Sunset 08.54pm
Weather elsewhere
Paris 25° sunny.
New York 29° thundery showers.
Athens 35° sunny.
Beach weather
Cannes – sea temperature 24 degrees. Air temperatreu 28 degrees. UV level 8..
Menton – Sea temperature 25 degrees. Air temperature 29 degrees. UV level.
And Finally
New research suggests that popular songs are starting to get longer again after years of shortening. While songs shrank over the past decade due to streaming, a recent survey highlighted a shift, showing that artists are now releasing tracks with extended durations, sometimes exceeding five minutes. This trend may be driven by changing listener habits and artists feeling freer to experiment beyond streaming’s earlier focus on short, catchy hooks. With the rise of albums and concept projects, longer songs allow for more complex storytelling and musical exploration. Some experts also suggest that as streaming platforms evolve, there’s less pressure to fit the traditional three-minute format. Meanwhile, genres like hip-hop, rock, and electronic music often embrace longer compositions.
So while shorter songs dominated the early streaming era, it seems we could be entering a new phase where longer tracks are making a comeback — blending artistry with audience demand for richer, immersive listening experiences.
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