Nice: Investigation launched into Estrosi couple's use of city drivers

Le Figaro has learned that a preliminary investigation has been launched by the Nice prosecutor's office concerning the alleged misuse of city drivers by former mayor Christian Estrosi and his wife, Laura Tenoudji. The probe, entrusted to the judicial police, is looking into suspected receipt of embezzled public funds.

While investigators are proceeding cautiously due to having only a partial view of the case, the alleged offenses reportedly date back to November 2025. At that time, Christian Estrosi, a member of the Horizons party, was still serving as the mayor of Nice and president of the metropolitan area. His tenure ended after he was defeated in the municipal elections in March by his rival Éric Ciotti of the UDR party, concluding an 18-year reign.

Estrosi chose not to join the opposition but remains the delegated president of the Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur region, led by Renaud Muselier. He reappeared at the regional council meeting on April 10. This investigation raises questions about the use of public resources by elected officials and their families, a matter of significant public interest in France.