Sarkozy, Royal face off in election debate

By James Mackenzie

PARIS (Reuters) - France's two presidential rivals, right-wing former interior minister Nicolas Sarkozy and Socialist Segolene Royal, hold a televised debate on Wednesday that could decide Sunday's election.

The two-hour encounter will be screened simultaneously by France's two biggest television channels from 8 p.m. British time, and is expected to attract an audience of more than 20 million.

Much of the months-long election campaign has been shaped by the contrasting personalities of the two candidates but voters have had few opportunities for a direct comparison.

Sarkozy, admired by supporters for his tough stance on crime and illegal immigration, is hated and feared by many on the left who call him a dangerous authoritarian.

Royal, aiming to be France's first woman president with a combination of left-wing economic policies and traditional social values, has faced constant questions over her competence.

For both, it will be a chance to win over voters who have followed the campaign with exceptional interest and who turned out in record numbers in the first round on April 22.

Details of the debate, to be moderated by two of France's most prominent journalists, have been worked out in minute detail after intensive consultation with the campaign teams.

The two will face each other in a modern-looking studio in front of a picture of the Elysee Palace, the official residence of the president.