File AFP image of French President Nicolas Sarkozy
France's President Nicolas Sarkozy was taken to hospital on Sunday after falling ill while exercising, his office said.
The 54-year-old leader was seen immediately by a doctor and underwent medical tests after falling ill, a statement from the Elysee Palace said.
Later, officials in his office said Sarkozy had been taken to hospital after suffering some kind of problem while exercising at La Lanterne, his weekend retreat near the Palace of Versailles outside Paris.
He was thought to have been taken to the Val de Grace military hospital, a well-placed source said. A military helicopter was seen flying over the Versailles forest.
Sarkozy, who assumed the presidency in May 2007, is a fitness enthusiast, and is often seen jogging or cycling with aides and bodyguards.
Just over three weeks ago, the Elysee released the results of Sarkozy's latest annual health check-up, describing the results of recent blood and heart tests as "normal".
No further details were provided on the tests.
During his campaign, Sarkozy pledged to publish regular health bulletins if elected. So far the Elysee has published one full health report, five days after the president was sworn in, saying he was fit to hold office.
Sarkozy was briefly hospitalised in October 2007 to undergo minor throat surgery, but the presidency did not publicise the fact until January 2008.