London, May 20 French First Lady Carla Bruni left hubby Nicolas Sarkozy red faced when she groped his backside during a press conference.

The former model and singer was being filmed in the Elysee Palace for a magazine when the President walked in, reports the Mirror.

Soon afterwards, Bruni was stroking Sarkozy's backside, pecking his cheek, and even whispering in his ear: "Bon courage, chou chou."

"Chou" is the French for cabbage, and the phrase used by young lovers means: "Be brave, my little darling."

The 41-year-old beauty was seen constantly staring the French President during the Paris interview, but the Sarkozy, 54, tried to discourage her. (ANI)