Nicolas Sarkozy's presidency concession speech in full

Nicolas Sarkozy has admitted defeat in his attempt to be re-elected French president.

The outgoing leader got about 48% of votes in Sunday's run-off, according to early projections, against 52% for Francois Hollande.

In his concession speech, Mr Sarkozy told stunned supporters that he was "taking responsibility for defeat".

Hinting about his possible political future, he said: "My place will no longer be the same. My involvement in the life of my country will now be different."