Nice Mayor Estrosi Denies Parkinson’s Rumors Ahead of Elections

The mayor of Nice, Christian Estrosi, publicly refuted claims of a Parkinson’s disease diagnosis on February 14, 2026, presenting a medical certificate to address circulating rumors. The move comes as he campaigns for re-election in the upcoming municipal elections scheduled for March 15, 2026, with a potential runoff on March 22, 2026.

Estrosi addressed the rumors during a press conference, expressing indignation at the spread of misinformation. He stated that he and his family had been repeatedly questioned about his health, even in personal settings. “Some people are spreading the rumor that I am ill, suffering from Parkinson’s disease. For three weeks, not a day has gone by without a journalist asking my press officer the question. The day before yesterday, it was in a hairdressing salon that the mother of my grown children (but my wife is also regularly) was questioned,” he said, according to reports.

To counter the allegations, Estrosi presented a letter from a neurologist confirming the absence of any neurological disorder consistent with Parkinson’s disease. The certificate, prepared by Dr. Rémi Lazdunski, a neurologist in Nice, stated that after examination, there was “no objective anamnestic or clinical argument in favor of idiopathic Parkinson’s disease or any other neurological disorder.” This action, Estrosi noted, was “quite unprecedented” in French political life.

The denial of these health concerns coincides with a heightened level of political tension in the lead-up to the municipal elections. Estrosi characterized the rumors as part of a “disgusting game” and denounced the methods used to disseminate them as “despicable.” He specifically referenced “despicable barbouze methods” and suggested his main political opponent, Éric Ciotti, was behind the attacks, though he did not name Ciotti directly.

Estrosi also addressed other rumors circulating about his personal life, including claims of a separation from his wife and allegations of financial impropriety, dismissing them as “pure fantasy.” He expressed concern about the impact of these rumors on his family, particularly his eight-year-old daughter, stating that he had to reassure her that he was not ill.

The mayoral race in Nice is shaping up to be a competitive one. Besides Estrosi and Ciotti, other candidates include Juliette Chesnel-Le Roux (PS, PCF, Verts), Mireille Damiano (LFI), Nathalie Dloussky (sovereignist), Céline Forjonnel (independent), Hélène Granouillac (ecologist), and Cédric Vella (Reconquête!). The election will utilize a closed-list system, with a potential second round if no candidate secures a majority in the first round.

The situation highlights the increasing scrutiny faced by political figures and the potential for misinformation to impact electoral campaigns. Estrosi’s decision to publicly address the health rumors and provide medical documentation underscores the challenges of navigating personal attacks in the political arena. The use of a medical certificate, while unusual, reflects a proactive attempt to dispel false narratives and maintain public trust.

Parkinson’s disease is a progressive neurological disorder that affects movement. Symptoms typically develop slowly and can include tremors, rigidity, slowness of movement, and postural instability. Diagnosis usually involves a clinical examination by a neurologist, and there is currently no cure, although treatments can help manage symptoms. The spread of misinformation about a candidate’s health can be particularly damaging, as it can raise doubts about their ability to fulfill the demands of office.

The upcoming municipal elections in Nice will be closely watched as a key indicator of the political landscape in France. The contest between Estrosi and Ciotti, in particular, is expected to be fiercely contested, with both candidates vying for the support of voters in this important southern French city.