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France 24
France 24
Lifestyle
Benjamin DODMAN

Racist attacks on pop star Aya Nakamura test France’s ability to shine at Paris Olympics

According to unconfirmed reports in the French press, pop star Aya Nakamura could perform at the opening ceremony of the Paris Olympics, updating a classic by postwar icon Édith Piaf. © Martial Trezzini, AP

Rumours that French pop star Aya Nakamara may sing at the opening ceremony of the Paris Olympics have triggered a flurry of attacks from the French far right, questioning the host country’s ability to appreciate the globally acclaimed talent emerging from its neglected suburbs with large immigrant populations.

With the Paris Olympics still months away, the host country has already won gold in a category it truly owns: divisive racial controversy with “made in France” flair.  

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