By Marco Hugo Barsotti MHB 
Welcome to am1575news, the news bulletin of France24 and Radio Centrale Milano for Tuesday September 08 2026 in podcasting, on the medium waves and on franciaoggi.com. In the newsroom in Nice Marco Hugo Barsotti, from Paris Rachel Costa.
News from France
Eiffel Tower closed: staff on strike due to blatant denial of women’s right to exist
Monday September 7 the Eiffel Tower remained closed to the public following a protest by employees against the conditions of a private visit organized last Saturday on the occasion of the great BAPS parade, an important Hindu religious organization. For that occasion a delegation asked to replace the female staff with men, asking women to stay away from the event.
Unions, including the CGT, denounced the measure as an act of humiliation toward the employees, arguing that the decision violates gender equality principles. Diane Davoine, CGT secretary at the safety and health committee of the Société d’Exploitation de la Tour Eiffel, said the request caused “shock, humiliation of women and anger among workers”.
The company managing the tower acknowledged the facts, stating that “no protocol, cultural or religious constraint can justify a derogation from the principles of equality between men and women”. The mayor of Paris reacted by expressing solidarity with the staff and condemning the practice as unacceptable.
The area around the monument remained deserted; tourists, not warned of the closure, discovered the situation upon arrival, lamenting the disappointment and inconvenience caused by the sudden decision to block access.
franceinfo, 7 September 2026
Fact Check by Gemma4.
Emmanuel Macron pushes for an International Video Game Festival in France: the first edition in Montpellier already summer 2027
The President of the Republic, Emmanuel Macron, announced the creation of an International Festival dedicated to video games, conceived as an element of the French “culture of exception”. The intervention, held during the Lumière Summit organized by France and which gathered the main cultural actors, was unexpected but immediately raised many questions.
Macron declared: “I deeply believe that video games are part of our culture and must be incorporated into the French cultural exception.” He then added that the event should reach the same prestige as the Cannes Film Festival or the Angoulême International Comics Festival, describing it as “a great worldwide appointment of creation, innovation, players and industry”.
According to the latest data from the Syndicat National du Jeu Vidéo (SNJV), France counts 575 development studios, 10 000 direct jobs and a turnover of about four billion euros. Vanessa Kaplan, spokesperson for the SNJV, welcomed the initiative enthusiastically, hoping the association can join the adventure. The Syndicat des Editeurs du Jeu Vidéo (Sell) also expressed its support: general manager Nicolas Vignolles confirmed that Sell was consulted and backs any project capable of making the video‑game sector shine in France, while continuing to focus on Paris Games Week.
The festival could be hosted in Montpellier, a southern city that in recent years has become a lively hub of video‑game creativity, thanks to studios such as Sandfall, Blue Twelve, Ubisoft Montpellier and others. The project, also supported by the CNC (Centre national du cinéma), aims to attract internationally relevant publishers and licences, presenting itself as a French version of Cologne’s Gamescom.
However, the definition of operational and financial details remains uncertain, especially ahead of Macron’s succession at the Élysée expected for spring 2027. The main industry organisations participated in two summer meetings in 2026, but no concrete agreement has yet been formalised.
Industry operators express interest but also doubt due to the lack of a clear calendar, considering the summer season already dense with events such as the Summer Game Fest and Gamescom. The president, who backed initiatives such as the Esports World Cup 2026 and the modernisation of the tax credit for the industry, also called for tighter regulation of violent video games, proposing a scientific study that, in his words, could lead to restrictions for younger people. So far, no research has demonstrated a direct link between video games and violent behaviour, drawing criticism from industry associations.
The future of the French International Video Game Festival therefore remains open, between enthusiasm for a potential major global event and uncertainties related to funding, timing and political line.
BFM TV, 7 September 2026
Fact Check by Gemma4.
Rachel’s Editorial – Pixel Festival, or the new cultural exception (while the rest falls apart)
Well yes, here we are again, in the fantastic world of dancing priorities. The President of the Republic, with his proverbial ability to surprise (or perhaps with a hint of fatigue in handling the rest), announces an International Festival dedicated to video games. An event that must enter the “culture of exception” French, at the same level as Cannes or Angoulême. A quantum leap, not a mere pastime: from cinema to comics to Grand Theft Auto and FIFA 2026.
Here, from our newsroom, the picture has been very different. While they talk about 575 studios, 10,000 jobs and a four‑billion turnover, outside the sparkling showcases of the sector the numbers that really matter keep dancing on their own. A deficit that grows unchecked? Silence. Gender equality put to the test by diktats that nobody seems willing to discuss? Nothing interesting. Only pixels, innovation and a great worldwide appointment of creation… provided it is digital.
And while the parties delight in this radiant “culture of exception 2.0” race, one wonders: is it really so urgent to elevate video games to national heritage when other urgencies remain in line? A selective myopia epidemic? Or perhaps it is that when projects must not only be useful, but must tell a story of modernity and soft power, one tends to take some liberties with the agenda?
Because if we cannot put the priorities in order between pixels and concrete problems, how can we then believe those who tell us France is still capable of exception? Credibility, as we know, does not fade with an update as easily as a new DLC… at least not always. Ah, France and its grand designs! Always a surprise.
Koan of the day
A monk asked Zhaozhou: “Does the Master take care of the pixels or the kingdom’s problems?”
“The pixels,” replied Zhaozhou.
“And why not the kingdom’s problems?”
“Because the pixels shine more in the light of the festival,” replied Zhaozhou.
Another time a monk asked Zhaozhou: “Does the Master take care of the pixels or the kingdom’s problems?”
“The kingdom’s problems.”
“Then why announce a video‑game festival?”
“Because even the kingdom’s problems need a nice excuse not to be faced,” replied Zhaozhou.
But back to the news.
It is inevitable: it will arrive later than our neighbours but food inflation will return to supermarkets (it should stay below 2.5 %)
Forecasts from several experts indicate that food price inflation will start to be felt in French supermarket aisles in the coming months, although price growth must remain contained. The current stability of price lists, especially thanks to strict regulation of commercial negotiations between large brands and distributors, however hides a series of pressure factors that are accumulating.
According to John Plassard, partner responsible for investment strategy at Cité Gestion, inflation is “inevitable” because of a combination of climatic events (heat waves in Europe, El Niño phenomena in Asia, Australia and America) and geopolitical tensions (Russia‑Ukraine conflict, disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz). However, consultants foresee that the effects on consumer prices will become more evident toward the end of the year or next spring.
At present, Emily Mayer, director of studies at Circana, observes a stable average of food prices, with a slight deflationary trend. Only a few sectors show signs of inflation, including bottled water – whose cost has risen due to a spike in plastic prices – and fruit and vegetables, hit by severe drought that caused the highest breakage rate of fresh products, 20 % for packaged salads at the beginning of August.
In parallel, coffee and cocoa prices are decreasing after the strong spikes experienced in 2024‑2025. In other European nations food inflation is already around 1.5‑2 %, but in France the pace is slower because farmers and agri‑food industries can submit their price‑adjustment requests only from November, with a negotiation deadline set for March 1.
From April onward, Circana forecasts indicate that food inflation should stabilise between 2 % and 2.5 %, also affecting frozen fruit and vegetables, dairy products (due to higher animal‑feed costs) and all products with expensive packaging. This level would still be well below the peaks of 2022‑2023, as current shocks are considered less sudden and more contained.
A Circana survey conducted at the beginning of summer shows that 50 % of consumers believe inflation above 3 % would change their purchasing habits, possibly shifting toward cheaper distributive brands and reducing consumption volumes of high‑quality products.
BFM Business, 8 September 2026
Fact Check by Gemma4.
Céline Dion opens up about twins Nelson and Eddy during her stay in Paris
Céline Dion arrived in Paris for a series of concerts at the Plenitude Arena, starting September 12, and settled in the luxurious Royal Monceau in the 8th arrondissement. She is not alone: twins Nelson and Eddy, born in 2010, accompany her in the French capital, sparking fan enthusiasm that has welcomed them with great affection.
During an interview given to journalists present at the hotel, the celebrated singer spoke about her relationship with the two teenagers, describing them as “her greatest treasures”. “I gave them life and now they support mine. My children are my greatest wealth,” she said, adding that she considers them “extraordinary” and cannot imagine living without them.
Beyond talking about the emotional bond, Dion highlighted the importance of the values she wants to pass on to her children, such as respect and tolerance. “I give many pieces of advice on how to behave towards others and I put a lot of emphasis on communication. I often talk to them, explain things because for me it is fundamental,” she explained, reaffirming her role as a protective and attentive mother.
Gala, 7 September 2026
Fact Check by Gemma4.
Welcome to the international bulletin from FranceToday and Radio Centrale Milano for Tuesday September 08 2026 on FranceToday.com in podcasting and on Medium Waves at 1575 kHz.
From Paris this is Rachel Costa.
Germany in shock over AfD victory in Saxony‑Anhalt
The result of the regional elections in Saxony‑Anhalt handed a clear majority to the far‑right AfD party, destabilising the centre‑right coalition led by Chancellor Friedrich Merz. The victory fuels debate about AfD’s ability to influence national policies, especially on immigration and security. Analysts fear the move could strengthen sovereignist rhetoric and put pressure on European institutions.
Mistral AI reaches a valuation of $24 billion with Samsung backing
French startup Mistral AI, specialised in advanced language models, closed a financing round that brings its valuation to $24 billion, with Samsung among the main investors. The deal showcases the global race for AI dominance, where European companies are seeking alternatives to US platforms. Experts warn that such a high concentration of capital could accelerate the continent’s competitiveness in the sector.
Iran accuses Canada of supporting US actions in the Strait of Hormuz
The Iranian Ministry of Foreign Affairs condemned Canada’s role in supporting US military operations in the strategic maritime route of the Strait of Hormuz. The accusation comes amid rising tensions between Tehran and Washington that threaten global oil supplies. The Iranian diplomat warned that Canadian support could further sharpen regional conflict.
North Korea and Russia open the first road bridge between the two countries
In a symbolic gesture of cooperation, North Korea and Russia have opened a bridge that directly connects their territories, strengthening economic and military ties. The new crossing was celebrated by both sides as proof of geopolitical rapprochement, despite international sanctions. Observers fear the infrastructure could facilitate the transfer of strategic resources between the two states.
European Union allocates €200 million for projects in Greenland under Trump pressure
The European Council approved €200 million funding for mining and infrastructure initiatives in Greenland, in response to recent US presidential annexation threats. The package aims to reinforce Danish sovereignty over the island and ensure access to critical resources such as rare earths. Analysts warn that the EU intervention could alter power balances in the Arctic.
Oil price hits six‑week peak amid Iran‑US tensions
Energy market trading saw Brent crude rise above $85 per barrel, driven by a new commercial escalation between Tehran and Washington. Concerns over possible disruptions to Saudi production fed the increase, while investors closely monitor diplomatic developments. The price surge reignites debate on strategic reserve policies in consuming countries.
Mistral AI secures €3 billion in funding, consolidating European AI leadership
Mistral AI, the young French artificial‑intelligence company, completed a €3 billion capital round, strengthening its position as a global competitor. Major European tech groups are among the investors, committed to supporting the development of proprietary models. Mistral’s growth is seen as a signal of Europe’s ability to challenge US giants in the AI field.
Anthropic launches an in‑house payment solution, threatening Stripe
AI startup Anthropic announced the introduction of a proprietary payment system integrated into its services, aiming to reduce dependence on external providers such as Stripe. The move represents a strategy to increase profit margins and control the entire financial ecosystem for its clients. Market observers assess the potential impact on competition in the digital‑payments sector.
Weather Paris, Monaco Monte Carlo and Milan for Tuesday September 08 2026
Paris – Variable sky with possible afternoon rain
The morning in Paris will start with clear skies that will slowly become cloudy, with temperatures around 19 °C and light south‑west winds at 15 km/h, according to expert Régis Crêpet. In the afternoon, clouds will thicken, raising coverage, with temperatures reaching 25 °C and stronger winds up to 45 km/h, while rain probability climbs to 70 %. In the evening the sky will remain very cloudy, temperatures dropping to 19 °C, a feeling of cold due to 50 km/h winds and a continued 70 % chance of isolated showers. During the night conditions will improve slightly, with partly cloudy skies, temperatures of 15 °C, lighter winds of 15 km/h and no significant precipitation. In summary, the day will feature alternating sunshine and rain, with strong wind variations. Minimum temperatures will be around 15 °C, maximums will reach 25 °C, with winds up to 50 km/h in the evening.
Monaco Monte Carlo – Sunny and warm, no rain
This morning in Monaco Monte Carlo the sky will be lightly clouded and the sun will bring warmth, with temperatures of 26 °C and light east winds at 10 km/h, as indicated by the weather service expert. In the afternoon the temperature will rise to 28 °C, maintaining a slight increase in cloudiness but without compromising the pleasant weather, with moderate winds up to 20 km/h and a heat index of 36 °C. In the evening some denser clouds will appear, but the climate will stay pleasant, with temperatures of 25 °C and east winds of 10‑20 km/h, with no trace of precipitation. During the night the sky will be predominantly cloudy, alternating clear and dark patches, with temperatures of 24 °C and light winds of 15 km/h, without any rain risk. The day will therefore be warm, with highs around 28 °C, lows around 24 °C, light‑moderate winds and no precipitation expected.
Milan – Sweltering heat with possible evening shower
In Milan the morning will be mild, with temperatures around 25 °C, mostly clear skies and very light east‑northeast winds at 2 km/h, according to expert Daniele Berlusconi of 3BMeteo. During the morning clouds will become denser, but temperatures will keep rising to 27 °C by midday, with light east‑southeast winds of 3‑4 km/h. The afternoon will feature a mostly clear sky, maximum temperatures reaching 33 °C, light east‑southeast winds at 4 km/h and a growing feeling of humidity. In the evening the sky will become cloudier and a light shower of about 0.5 mm is forecast, with temperatures of 25 °C, west winds at 5 km/h and a rain probability of around 55 %. During the night the sky will stay cloudy, temperatures dropping to 22 °C, light winds and no significant precipitation. In summary, Milan’s day will be very hot, with highs around 33 °C, lows around 25 °C, light winds and a possible evening shower.
Rachel’s Weather Editorial – Climate is always the first answer
It’s truly astonishing how every little temperature change is instantly blamed on climate change, as if an afternoon drizzle were proof that the planet is about to collapse. We really wonder, who thinks our desire for a bit of sunshine is the definitive proof of an out‑of‑control global warming?
And then, why do all the meteorology journalists seem to have discovered the magic formula that links every cloud to an apocalyptic future? Maybe we should simply enjoy the nice weather while it’s here, instead of turning a light drizzle into a catastrophe announced by every roadside sign.
Koan of the day
A monk asked: “What is the true face of time today?”
Zhaozhou replied: “The sky is clear, but the heat is an illusion.”
The monk answered: “Then why does the air feel heavier?”
Zhaozhou concluded: “Because the wind blows stronger inside us.”
And that’s today’s weather.
Sign-off.
Online, on X and Mastodon, on all smart speakers and on medium wave, this is FranciaOggi with Centrale Milano 1575 kilohertz.