Éric Ciotti claims victory in Nice mayoral race

Speaking shortly before 9pm, Ciotti said the result marked “a huge victory” built by his backers, praising their “immense trust” after a hard-fought campaign.

“We did it despite scepticism, contempt and adversity,” he added.

According to early estimates, Ciotti defeated outgoing mayor Christian Estrosi, securing around 45% of the vote against 39.5%, with left-wing candidate Juliette Chesnel-Le Roux trailing behind.

The result reflects a strategy of uniting right-wing and far-right voters.

Turnout was estimated at about 60%, with abstention near 40%.

Ciotti concluded by calling for unity and looking ahead, thanking supporters and figures from civil society who helped drive what he described as a campaign for political change in the city.

Christian Estrosi steps down after Nice election defeat

Meanwhile, defeated mayor Christian Estrosi has announced he is withdrawing from political life in Nice after losing the municipal election to Éric Ciotti, ending nearly 18 years in power.

Addressing supporters on Sunday evening, Estrosi said: “Being your mayor was the honour of my life,” accepting the result with “emotion, gravity and gratitude” while acknowledging voters’ decision to back a new leadership team.

Reflecting on his time in office, he highlighted key moments including the 2016 Nice truck attack and the Covid-19 crisis, saying his mandate should be judged by its lasting impact rather than a single election result.

Estrosi also criticised the campaign, accusing the left of enabling the far right, and declared that the “Republican front” had effectively collapsed in Nice.

He confirmed he will not sit on the city council or the metropolitan authority, closing his speech by saying: “This is not goodbye, but farewell.”