It's official

The official 8PM results are in: TF1 and France2 French TV call it Nicolas Sarkozy 53%, Ségolène Royal 47%.

Le Monde Al-Jazeera on the Seine calls it: Nicolas Sarkozy 53.5%, Ségolène Royal 46.5% as does Le Figaro.

20h05: Royal, in s short speech at the Maison de l'Amérique Latine, has conceded the election to Sarkozy.
20h12: Sarkozy has just left his HQ and is heading to the Salle Gaveau where he will make a statement to his supporters before heading to the victory celebration at the Place de la Concorde.

20h22: Sarkozy's motorcade has just arrived at the Salle Gaveau.
20h32: Sarkozy has just appeared on the stage of the Salle Gaveau to deliver his victory speech.
20h39: Sarkozy has just stated that America can count on France as a friend and ally. He also stated that he expects the United States, as the world's leading power, to take the lead in the fight against global warming which he will make a priority during his Presidential term.
21h00: Sarkozy's motorcade leaves the Salle Gaveau and heads over to Le Fouquets restaurant on the Champs-Elysées where he will dine with friends before going to the Place de la Concorde.