Thierry Gouvenou explains in greater detail the challenges of a flat stage, as the outcome is often too predictable. It's up to him to design a course that will force riders out of their comfort zone. One solution? A mountain stage and rough terrain.

Morocco seeks to claim sovereignty over Western Sahara, a long-disputed territory on the northwest coast of Africa, which is sought out for its large phosphate deposits and abundant fisheries.

King Hassan II tries various methods to reclaim sovereignty over Western Saharan territories—first through legal means, then by force.

The king of Morocco's "fait accompli policy" appears to be working. He has managed to gain the support of the United States and European countries on the Western Sahara sovereignty issue. Still, the long-term consequences are unknown as the Sahrawi population was not given a say in the matter.

The 2026 municipal elections in France turned up some interesting results: three major victories for the left in France's largest cities of Paris, Lyon, and Marseille, and one major loss in Brest to the far-right.

During this record-breaking heat wave in France, many are seeking refuge in air-conditioned shopping centers, churches, and hotels. Repeated sleepness nights in homes without AC are testing people's nerves.

In the first episode of this documentary on Quebec, a young Frenchman shares his impressions on Canada. As the interviewees in the film demonstrate, the Quebecois have conflicting attitudes toward the French—some see them as "snobs," while others see them as just "polite."

In the second episode of Le Québec parle aux Français, we learn more about the complex relationship between the French and the Quebecois throughout history. We also learn about the evolution of the French language in Quebec—according to a former Prime Minister of Quebec, the province even "spoke French before France"!

The situation of the French language in Quebec is controversial and complex. Montreal was an English-speaking city until 1920, and it wasn't until the passage of Law 101 in 1977 that French became the official language of Quebec. According to some of the interviewees in this video, Québécois French is in a precarious position once again, with municipal signage and corporate names in Montreal reverting to English, as well as shopkeepers who refuse to speak French.

One might think that the push to remove anglicisms from the French language would be stronger in France, but the larger movement to "purify" French is actually happening in Quebec. Many Québécois worry that the French language is endangered in Canada, and the Quebec government has taken measures to preserve it by inventing new words instead of borrowing from English. That's why an email is still un email in France, but un courriel in Quebec.

French Canada is a cultural mosaic that is still exploring its identity. Some French Canadians feel more American than French, while others feel more of an allegiance to their French roots. Somehow, a Quebecois nation is emerging out of all this, but not without some growing pains.

In part 6 of Le Québec parle aux Français, the interviewees compare and contrast the immigrant situation in France and Quebec. France, being a smaller country, creates additional pressure for immigrants, while in Quebec, immigrants do rather well. Later, Olivier treats us to a little song he wrote himself.

In part seven of this series on Quebec, Olivier focuses on something that is dear to the hearts of many Québécois: the majestic Saint Lawrence River. He also explores their relationship with money and the way they conduct business. Olivier asks whether it's easier to do business in Quebec or in France. Quebec, it seems, offers more opportunities for companies, with fewer regulations and restrictions, while France remains a very productive country despite the thirty-five-hour workweek.

In part 8 of Le Québec parle aux Français, Olivier discusses the cost of maintaining a high standard of living. Is France living beyond its means? Heavy taxation and full employment would go some way toward balancing the national budget and covering the cost of welfare programs.

Quebec may never answer the vexing question: Should Quebec remain part of Canada or not? While opinions are divided, Quebecois don't necessarily show the same passion as the French when debating hot issues.