From the Promenade des Anglais to Place Masséna, 1,500 players from six countries transformed Nice into the capital of pétanque for a weekend.
From August 1 to 3, the 9th International Pétanque Métropole Nice Côte d’Azur brought together the best players from all over, in an atmosphere combining competition, friendship, and family traditions. Boulodromes on the Promenade des Anglais, the center court Place Masséna, bright sunshine, and a welcoming breeze: everything was set to make this 9th edition a popular success. More than 1,500 players from six countries came to Nice to try their luck in one of the most renowned competitions on the Côte d’Azur.
A familial and international passion
For Christophe Mancini, 25, a Monegasque player preparing to compete in the World Championship in Rome in September, pétanque is above all a family story. “I started with my grandfather at celebrations… Today, it’s become very serious. I’ve been European champion twice. But ultimately, what matters is having fun with friends.”
The same goes for Vincent Fernandez, a 36-year-old from Nice, who has been participating in this tournament for about fifteen years. “It’s a tradition for us. We’re all together, it’s a party! And for those who come from elsewhere, playing here on the Promenade is a dream. The most beautiful setting in France.”
While some aim for the semi-final as a minimum goal, for others, the essential lies elsewhere. “Results don’t matter. What counts is being here, relaxing after work, and playing with close ones,” shares Guillaume Campillo, a player for the Monegasque club.
Women in pétanque: focused and determined
The women’s competition, equally technical, was highlighted by the tenacity of its participants. An 80-year-old woman from Antibes, still in the running, shares: “women are just as competitive as men. We play with heart, but also to win. I’ve been playing for 46 years. And it continues!”
Around the courts, Jean-Luis, a fervent supporter of the women’s team, admires their game: “women are more meticulous, more focused. They play not to lose, and it shows.”
In the paths of Masséna or under the shade of palm trees, spectators lavish praises on the warm atmosphere. “The weather is beautiful, the sea is right there, the ambiance is magnificent,” sums up Stéphane, a loyal fan who came to cheer for his friends.
Everyone also praises the quality of the organization and respect from the public, even when tourists stop by out of curiosity. “We overlook it, we’re used to it. But it’s also motivating that they are here,” adds Guillaume with a smile.
Tradition, competition, and transmission
Whether they are champions, amateurs, or simply curious, everyone shares the same message: pétanque is a demanding yet deeply human sport. “We lack young people, regrets Christophe Mancini. “So keep playing, train. It’s a beautiful sport with real values.”
If you enjoy pétanque, you can come to cheer on the competitors still in the running until this evening at 8:30 PM!
