Living in France it was hard not be caught up in the World Cup fever and despite an ill-timed phone call meaning I missed the final moments I never needed to question the outcome. Neighbours danced in the streets and celebrations took over with the tricolor seemingly displayed from every building and the residents of the old town of Nice even hanging their washing in perfect red, white and blue formation!  I captured this image of the village of Valbonne celebrating in style, something which I am sure was repeated countrywide.

A year on and the French World cup team can be seen on television, social media and news stands across the nation yet the sporting legacy or the “World Cup Effect” goes far beyond the celebrity, the positive economics and political boost. While the official results are not yet in, the increase in sport participation and activity following a major sporting event or win is an often cited outcome. For a country due to host the 2019 FIFA women’s World Cup,  the 123rd French Open at Roland Garros and the highly anticipated 2024 Olympics, and already home to sporting greats including Zinedine Zidane, Laurent Fignon, Mary Pearce, Gael Monfils, Perrine Laffont and Alain Bernard,  it is definitely an exciting time ahead.

International sporting events aside it is hard to avoid the growing global trend for fitness, wellbeing and personal health. Developers, residents and employees alike are reacting to these trends by adapting our built environment to the changing demands of a dynamic workforce and population. New developments now often include onsite gyms and sporting facilities, whereas offices and work space are increasingly showcasing more innovative ways of boosting employees work environment (Work out at Work). And private homes see no difference with many luxury homes including sporting elements.  And for those looking for even more of a sporting aspect, Savills are proud to include a dedicated sports and entertainment department.

With another sporting summer keenly anticipated we are delighted to showcase a selection of French residential and commercial property with dedicated sporting facilities from skiing to golf, tennis and yoga. If you are looking for a sporting home or planning to invest, move or rent property across France or further afield our dedicated multilingual team would be delighted to assist and help you discover your next property.