News
French MP to stand trial - French MP Éric Ciotti is set to stand trial on the 27th of March 2026 over allegations linked to defamation, following a complaint made by Christian Estrosi, the mayor of Nice and a long-time political rival. The case dates back to 2023.
Homeowners protest – In Roquebrune-sur-Argens, more than 600 holiday homeowners are protesting a proposed 60% tax surcharge on second homes. They argue the increase is unfair, damaging to the local economy, and unlikely to free up housing. The group is urging the town council to reopen discussions ahead of a crucial vote in September.
Investigation - An investigation is underway after French streamer Raphaël Graven, known as Jean Pormanove, died during a live broadcast at his home near Nice in Contes. The 46-year-old, known for extreme challenges, had reportedly suffered violence and sleep deprivation on streams. Authorities have opened an investigation, and the streaming platform Kick is reviewing the incident. Officials called the case “horrifying” and stressed the need for stricter online content regulation.
OGC Nice supporters unhappy - Supporters of the football club OGC Nice have started a petition calling for owners Ineos to step down. Fans accuse the group of neglecting the club in favour of Manchester United, especially after disappointing results and controversial remarks from Ineos boss Jim Ratcliffe. The petition has gathered over 1,500 signatures.
Swimming ban - Swimming has been banned on two beaches in Sanary, in the Var, due to suspected pollution. Water quality tests are ongoing.
Illegal alcohol sales – Meanwhile, the mayor of nearby Six-Fours has renewed a ban on late-night stores, requiring them to close between 10 pm and 6 am until mid-September. The move aims to tackle public order issues and illegal alcohol sales after 8:30 pm.
Petition – A petition in France has gathered 38,000 signatures opposing the loan of the fragile 11th-century Bayeux Tapestry to the British Museum in London. Critics call the move “a crime against French heritage” and warn of risks to the tapestry’s delicate condition. The loan, planned for 2026-2027, was announced by President Macron during his recent UK visit and is intended as a diplomatic gesture.
Monaco ranks among top 5 cities for the Ultra-Rich - Monaco has entered the global top five most desirable cities for the ultra-wealthy, according to the 2025 Barnes City Index. Attracting those with over $30 million in assets, the Principality scores high for its safety, tax benefits, and luxury lifestyle. Despite property prices averaging €50,000 per m², demand remains strong—especially from wealthy Europeans seeking a glamorous yet secure base on the Med.
Five celebrity villas for sale on the French Riviera – Finally, five historic villas on the French Riviera, once owned by famous artists and stars, are now on the market. They include Charles Trenet’s Art Deco home in Antibes (€6.6m), Sean Connery’s Belle Époque mansion in Nice (€23.5m), and Edith Piaf’s former retreat in Mougins (€3m). Also for sale is singer Petula Clark’s property in Vallauris (€1.8m). Each one offers a unique history and stunning locations.
Business
The White House has confirmed it’s working on a deal that could give the US government a 10% stake in Intel. The move, involving grant-to-equity swaps, aims to boost domestic chip manufacturing as Intel struggles to compete globally in the AI market.
Air Canada flight crew have reached a tentative deal with the airline, ending a nearly four-day strike that stranded over 500,000 passengers. The agreement, which includes proposed pay increases of up to 12%, follows marathon talks with a government mediator. Flights resumed on Tuesday, but full service may take days to restore.
And - The final £1 coins bearing Queen Elizabeth II’s image are entering circulation, marking the end of an era in British currency. Over 23 million dated 2021 and 2022 are being released, alongside 7.5 million new coins featuring King Charles III. The Royal Mint calls it a historic transition, as both monarchs’ coins will circulate side by side for years to come.
Sport
Football - Liverpool’s Mohamed Salah has been named the PFA Men’s Player of the Year for 2025, becoming the first player to win the award three times. Aston Villa’s Morgan Rogers took home the Young Player of the Year award, while former England manager Gareth Southgate received the PFA Merit Award for his contributions to the national team.
Rugby Union - The Welsh Rugby Union is proposing a major shake-up of the professional game, aiming to reduce the number of men’s teams from four to two. A six-week consultation will follow, with a final decision expected by the end of October.
Tennis - Emma Raducanu and Carlos Alcaraz may be out of the US Open mixed doubles, but they stole the show at Flushing Meadows. The high-profile duo lost to Jack Draper and Jessica Pegula in straight sets, 4-2, 4-2, under the tournament’s new shortened format.
Weather
Rather unsettled with hazy sunshine and scatter showers. Moderate to strong winds across the region by this afternoon. Highs of 27 degrees along the coast, 28 degrees inland and this evening going down to 23 degrees.
The outlook for tomorrow, thundery showers to start, clearing by the afternoon. Highs of 29 degrees in Saint Tropez.
The sunrose in Monaco this morning at 06.40am and will set this evening at 8.26pm.
Beach weather
Expect warm and mostly cloudy conditions throughout the day, with air temperatures climbing from around 21°C this morning to a high of 27°C by late afternoon. The sea is pleasantly warm at approximately 25°C. UV index of around 7 to 8, so sun protection is essential, even with the cloud cover. Regional yellow alerts are in effect for possible thunderstorms and high heat later in the day.
And Finally
The real story behind the 99 Flake’s name. The beloved British ice cream treat was invented in the 1930s, but the name “99” doesn’t come from its price, as many believe. Instead, it was a clever nod to Italian customers, inspired by the elite royal guard of 99 soldiers, symbolising something special or first-class. Some say an Italian ice cream seller in Scotland started the tradition by breaking Flakes into cones, but that’s unproven. One thing is certain: prices for a 99 Flake have soared, with some vendors charging over £5.50 now, making this classic treat a luxury for many.
French MP Éric Ciotti is set to stand trial on the 27th of March 2026 over allegations linked to defamation, following a complaint made by Christian E...
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A power outage has left shops and homes without electricity for about 30 minutes today in Nice’s Libération district....
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A major wildfire which broke out on Monday near Pontevès, between Barjols and Cotignac in the Var has now been contained after destroying 130 hectares...
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There’s been an attempted robbery at a jewellery store in Cannes. An individual, apparently acting alone, entered the Bulgari store on the Croisette t...
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Speaking in Bormes les Mimosas in the Var on Sunday, French President Emmanuel Macron has said that Europe will stand united with Ukraine at today’s t...
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