The people of Nice paid an emotional and vibrant tribute to “their” champion by participating in a silent vigil in her honor at the water feature of the Promenade du Paillon. A huge portrait of the young swimmer was illuminated as night fell.
In this almost surreal atmosphere, people gathered to express their grief in the presence of Camille’s family and civil and sports authorities.
Hundreds, thousands of lit candles placed on the ground expressed the significance of this popular participation.
Some reactions from the Azur sports community
For the Olympic Nice Natation, Camille was the symbol of a deep attachment to the City of Nice, to her Club, her coach, and her friends.
She was an example of courage, seriousness, and selflessness. We all have deep thoughts for her parents, her brother, and sister, and the athletes who were close to our Champion. The ONN family mourns Camille.
Jean MONNOT, President
Deeply shaken by the tragic loss of three high-level athletes, the Regional Olympic and Sports Committee of the Côte d’Azur wishes to express its deep emotion and sadness.
Camille MUFFAT, our Olympic Champion, has long been the flag bearer of high-level sports in the Côte d’Azur.
Always by our side, she accompanied us with her simplicity and kindness.
We extend our most sincere condolences to her entire family affected by such a cruel loss.
Pierre CAMBREAL, President of the Regional Olympic and Sports Committee of the Côte d’Azur
The Departmental Olympic and Sports Committee of Alpes-Maritimes mourns exceptional Champions of French and Azur sports. It shares the immense sorrow felt by all relatives, athletes, and anonymous people at the announcement of the deaths of Florence Arthaud, Alexis Vastine, and Camille Muffat.
Camille Muffat from Nice was one of the greatest Champions world swimming has ever known. Camille, who made us dream so much, leaves a void that all the tears of Azur athletes can never fill.
The CDOS 06 asks each departmental sports committee to kindly, this weekend or the next, begin each competition at all levels with a moment of reflection in memory of Camille Muffat, Florence Arthaud, and Alexis Vastine.
Philippe Manassero, President of CDOS 06
