Open for almost two years in Nice (since June 27, 2014), the National Museum of Sport is anticipating a big year in 2016. After a full first year, it recorded 45,000 visitors in 2015. For 2016, the establishment is hoping for a record turnout.
A popular museum
“It’s a fantastic educational tool,” states Véronique Humbert, deputy director of the bilingual school of Pégomas. Visiting for the first time with a class of second and third graders, it’s a moment to introduce younger students to the values and history of sport. “Sport is something that unites and achieves a lot. I think schoolchildren need it,” confides Véronique Humbert.
Among other visitors, the museum also welcomes many families. It’s an opportunity for generations to share the victories of the French Handball team, the Olympic titles of David Douillet or Marie-José Perec, and, of course, the world title won in 1998 by Zidane’s Blues. Thomas Fanari, the museum’s communication manager, adds, “The goal of the museum is not to display static sports objects, but to evoke memories and emotions, whether they are victories or defeats. That’s what the public comes for,” he explains.
A sports museum… but not only
The objective for the establishment in 2016 is to welcome 60,000 visitors. To achieve this, the teams are multiplying temporary exhibitions on other themes. “It’s not only sports objects in the museum. There are also sculptures, paintings, engravings, etc., which is why we hold temporary exhibitions on other themes, such as contemporary art or fashion and sport, which we did last summer. It allows us to attract a wider audience,” explains Thomas Fanari.
Additionally, the museum works in conjunction with the Nice Tourist Office to organize tours.
With the backdrop of the Allianz Riviera and Euro 2016, the museum is expected to benefit from a record turnout next June.
by Désiré Teivao
photo credit: Désiré Teivao
