Sarkozy’s studio dramas spark overnight internet sensation

Video footage of Nicolas Sarkozy having a major hissy fit, recorded without his knowledge at the public TV channel France 3, has become an overnight internet hit. Within 24 hours, almost 400,000 people have watched the clip of the French President tearing into his staff. Among other treats, Sarkozy is seen verbally swiping a technician who fails to reply when the President says "hello".

"It's a matter of upbringing," Sarkozy tells the man. "When you're a guest you have the right to expect a hello... Or we're not in the public service here, we are at a demonstration ... incredible... and serious.”

He then added menacingly: "That's going to change". Full of nervous ticks, the President taps his fingers and plays with his Patek Philippe watch – a present from his wife Carla Bruni – asking whether the studio clock is working.

It is thought Sarko was ruffled after driving past staff protesting at his plan to personally nominate a new head of the TV company. The clip may even become as popular as the one video that showed him apparently drunk at a G8 press conference last year, which has received millions of hits.