Madonna was reportedly left furious after she kicked off the French leg of her Sticky + Sweet tour - after technical faults hindered her performance.

The pop superstar took to the stage in Nice, France on Tuesday (26Aug08) to perform to a packed out crowd, including Sir Elton John and Victoria and David Beckham.

But technical problems backstage meant the huge visual screens used throughout the show went blank during several songs.

And perfectionist Madonna was livid with her staff, according to the London Paper.

A source tells the publication, "Madonna sets very high standards for herself and for those working around her, so when things go wrong she gets annoyed."

And the presence of rocker Elton John, with who the Material Girl star has had a turbulent relationship, meant the slip-up was a double blow to Madonna.

The source adds, "With so many friends in the audience it was doubly annoying for her."