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Monaco Tribune

Preview and Talking Points: Hutter’s AS Monaco eager for success against Metz
March 29th

Although AS Monaco are currently sitting third in the Ligue 1 standings and in an excellent position to finish in the Champions League qualification places, manager Adi Hutter knows the run home won’t be easy.

Speaking ahead of their game with Metz, who are fighting to avoid relegation, the Austrian tactician was full of insight on a variety of topics, as his team embarks on this pivotal period.

Heading into this Metz match on a four match unbeaten run and eager to continue their excellent away form that’s seen them win seven of their last nine road games, obtaining all three points is vital especially given tough encounters with Rennes, Brest, Lille and Lyon are on the horizon.

“We know they are fighting for survival in Ligue 1, they may not have the best record at home, but they have a goal to save themselves and they are going to want to fight for it. For our part, we want to continue our good streak away,” Hutter explained.

“When you look at the Ligue 1 rankings, everyone is fighting for very specific objectives, whether for Europe or to maintain their position. Our intention is clear, and it is to deliver the best performance possible, whether at home or away. The important thing for me is to attack the last eight games of the season with confidence, and that we fight to have the best possible results in front of our home crowd or on the road. But the most important thing is that we are still in the battle for the top four, and that we have the keys to qualify for the Champions League. There are also aspects that we do not always control due to injuries and suspensions, but again I repeat, we have our destiny in our hands.”

Another key topic of discussion that arose was the return of star forward Breel Embolo, who’s set to be in the matchday squad following his ACL injury, which is a huge boost for the remainder of the campaign even if it’s unlikely he’ll feature on the weekend.

“After a long period of unavailability, you should always be careful and not take risks. I don’t think he’s 100% ready, even though he’s been training with us for ten days. He could be in the group in Metz, for the dynamic, but I prefer to wait one more week to see him make his return to competition,” Hutter insisted.

“In any case what is certain is that he really wants to come back. During his first season in Monaco, and even with me in Monchengladbach, he had exceptional seasons. He is a very communicative person, who is very important in the locker room, especially because he speaks a lot of languages. He transmits good energy to the group.”

Hutter also gave his insights on the goalkeeping situation, which has seen Radoslaw Majecki step up impressively to claim the number spot from Philipp Kohn, as he approached the subject in a professional, measured manner.

“First of all, I must say that we had to make a decision which was not easy. We spoke a lot with Philipp Kohn, who understood our point of view, especially as Radeck was gaining strength in training,” stated the 54-year-old.

“Radoslaw has a big personality, a great attitude on the pitch, and he is very communicative. He’s doing a fantastic job and has helped us a lot recently, even if he was unlucky against Lorient. He’s shown his qualities, particularly one-on-one. But we must not forget the work that Philipp has done since the start of the season. Every player obviously wants to start every match, but we have a very good relationship with them. Philipp has not changed his way of being, he still works hard in training, and shows a very professional attitude, even after this decision which came after the Toulouse match.”

With so many storylines surrounding Les Monegasques following the international break ahead of the all-important home stretch, it’ll be fascinating to see how Monaco fare against Metz.

Set to pick a strong squad and desperate to maintain their superb away form, which is the second best in the league behind only Paris Saint-Germain, this Metz match will be crucial for Hutter and his Monaco team to inject some positive momentum into what looms as a captivating sprint to the finish line.

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AS Monaco: Dmitry Rybolovlev, a President with a close connection to his club
March 28th

The AS Monaco President has been cheering on his team in recent weeks, both at Louis-II and away from home, as reported in L’Équipe on Wednesday 27 March.

Adi Hütter’s side have played eight games in the space of a month and a half. Which is also the number of matches attended by Dmitry Rybolovlev, a 100% attendance record.

His regular and conspicuous presence raises questions, according to L’Équipe at a time when rumours are rife about a possible sale of the club in the coming months. 

However, according to the French sports daily, the AS Monaco president has never missed a match in recent seasons, even if his busy schedule has sometimes prevented him from being physically present at away matches.

Close to Thiago Scuro and Adi Hütter

As the season draws to a close, the businessman intends to stay close to his players and staff to help them achieve the goal set out at the start of the season and which has eluded AS Monaco since 2018-2019: direct qualification for the Champions League group stage. This would be an excellent ‘birthday present’ for AS Monaco fans in the club’s centenary season.

Elected to the LFP board a year and a half ago, Dmitry Rybolovlev has decided to become more personally involved in the day-to-day running of his club, and he was also present at the La Turbie Performance Centre ahead of the Riviera derby against OGC Nice and on the eve of the clash with Paris Saint-Germain.

President Dmitry Rybolovlev attended the training session at the AS Monaco performance centre prior to the match with PSG © AS Monaco

According to L’Équipe, he is very attentive to feedback from Adi Hütter and Thiago Scuro, with whom he frequently discusses the sports side. At the last match against Lorient, President Rybolovlev presented Aleksandr Golovin and Ismaïl Jakobs with collector’s jerseys in recognition of their long service at the club. 

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Driver charged after crash killing two IUM students
March 28th

The tragedy occurred on December 17, 2023, around 4.30 am. 

The investigation is ongoing, over three months after the violent collision that claimed the lives of two students and injured two others at the exit of the Millenium tunnel, near the border with Cap-d’Ail. According to Monaco-Matin, the public prosecutor’s office has confirmed that the driver, a 22-year-old Finn, has been charged by the examining magistrate with “aggravated manslaughter and aggravated unintentional injury”, and placed under the court’s supervision.

The driver and four female passengers, all students at the International University of Monaco (IUM), were in the vehicle. A first fatality was reported at the scene. She was a 19-year-old young woman from Kazakhstan, and a second death was announced a few days later. Taken to hospital in a serious condition after the collision, the 20-year-old student from Azerbaijan did not recover from her injuries.

Under the court’s supervision

When contacted in December, the public prosecutor told us that the driver was driving well over the speed limit, and under the influence of alcohol at the time of the incident. An investigation was opened, but the driver, who was admitted to the Pasteur hospital in Nice, could not be questioned immediately by the police. The Monegasque daily reports that the man was finally questioned on Thursday, February 8 and charged on Thursday, March 21.

The public prosecutor’s office had requested that he be remanded in custody pending the court hearing, however the judge decided to place him under the court’s supervision, “with several obligations, including a €60,000 bond to be paid in instalments”, as reported by Monaco-Matin.

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Monaco shopkeepers: Rossi ice cream, naturally
March 28th

The Rossi family has been based in Monaco since 2017, and those seven years have been enough to build up a fabulous reputation.

A Tiffany blue shopfront, and so many flavours it’s impossible to choose? Then you must have found Rossi, the artisanal ice-cream shop, next to the Sainte-Dévote church. At the counter, where we met Sonia and Claudio Rossi, the bright colours on display are like a rainbow for the tastebuds.

Originally from Italy, the two founders arrived in Monaco “six seasons ago,”  says Sonia. It didn’t take long for them to be spotted by the locals, like Zalog and her two children, who have come for a treat after lunch. “We came here in their first year, and they make the best ice cream in Monaco,” says Mum.

From a simple fruit sorbet to a gourmet combination, Rossi offers a wide choice – © Monaco Tribune

“We have a natural philosophy”

Innovate, test, produce, create – that’s the guiding principle at Rossi. Claudio has been in ice cream since he was 16, and through his studies in food chemistry he has acquired an impressive understanding of how tastes and products work together. “I am constantly trying out new flavours,” he says. Also thanks to this knowledge, the Rossis place the emphasis on health. For example “there is no added white sugar in our sorbets.”

In fact no additives are used in their recipes. “We only work with natural products,” the couple stresses. They also create new ice creams especially for certain events, such as at the moment, for the Printemps des Arts (Spring arts festival). “Monaco is an international place and we love to try out different flavours,” adds Sonia, who takes care of the customer and administrative side.

Flavour is obviously an integral part of the product. This is why Sonia and Claudio attach so much importance to their ingredients. Origin, culture, ethics… the products and suppliers are selected with great care. “We use organic produce and short supply chains as much as possible. The tropical fruit is obviously imported, but otherwise it comes from the surrounding area or Italy… And we’ve seen that the local products are really top quality,” Sonia explains.

This means flavours depend on the seasons, so the display changes according to the time of the year, “you won’t see peach in the winter.”

The recyclable box is designed to keep the cold in – © Monaco Tribune

As well as the quality of the local products, the environmental aspect is paramount. “It breaks my heart to see all this plastic at sea, so we have been using biodegradable cardboard packaging from an Italian supplier for some time. It’s more expensive, but at least it’s in keeping with our vision.”

A close family with a common point of view

The Rossi ice cream store is a family business. Arianna and Alessandro,  Claudio and Sonia’s children, have been bitten by the homemade ice cream bug. “We’re very proud,” say the parents. Three of them take turns each morning to create the day’s ice creams, in the small laboratory at the back of the shop. The ice cream is made every morning to ensure the customer enjoys the freshest product.

Sonia and Claudio along with  their employee Elena and their daughter Arianna – © Monaco Tribune

Advice and customer relations are a priority for Sonia and Claudio. They praise a dynamic team that listens to their foodie customers. Above all, Sonia insists on “the mindset. Our employees must share our philosophy of explaining and advising customers according to their tastes, desires, and even allergies. It’s important to take the time, and be cheerful.” Elena has been working with the family for six years and nothing could make her want to leave.

Alessandro Rossi and the Liège waffle flavour “which we used to mark ‘Gelato Day’, the European Day of Artisanal Gelato” (March 24) – © Rossi

Rossi is also thinking about the future. “Many customers ask us where they can get our ice cream. So we are thinking about expanding our business elsewhere, but first, we need to find out if we can get the same quality of products in different countries, to keep up our philosophy. For example, milk is produced differently in some Arab countries. But it’s interesting, because it could also allow us to work with certain ingredients that we can’t find here,” says Sonia.

Meanwhile, the only place to enjoy these ice creams is close to Port Hercule, where you can meet the entire Rossi family.


Practical info:

  • Where: 57 Rue Grimaldi, 98000 Monaco
  • When: 7/7 from 10 am to 10 pm
  • Prices: €

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Digital challenges central to the 7th Monaco Women Forum
March 28th

Autonomous vehicles, cryptocurrencies, data security and artificial intelligence were just some of the areas covered by the experts present.

Debating the digital future was the aim of the forum organised by journalist and entrepreneur Cinzia Sgambati Colman, which brought together speakers and members of the public to cover a wide range of digital-related topics in the presence of Yvette Lambin Berti, Secretary of State, representing Prince Albert II, and the President of the National Council, Brigitte Boccone-Pagès. Among the experts were:

  • Faustine Fleuret (of ADAN) and Émilie Allaert (of Luxembourg Blockchain Lab) shared their perspectives on cryptocurrency regularisation in European countries, as well as the transition to a cashless society and blockchain’s role in making it secure.
  • Professor Sergio M. Savaresi and engineer Maria Marcello from the Politecnico di Milano demonstrated how technological advances in AI and mobility will transform not only urban vehicles, but also our approach to travel, with a futuristic model of sharing electric and autonomous vehicles.
  • As Petra Scudo and Isabella Cerutti, researchers at the European Commission’s Joint Research Centre (JRC) demonstrated, advances in quantum technology and 5G and soon 6G telecommunications are essential to guaranteeing the security and efficiency of our communications.Cybersecurity expert Domitilla Benigni stressed the importance of raising public awareness about the dangers and risks involved in protecting our data, while also addressing the issue of satellites’ security, as they remain vulnerable to attack.
  • Professor Cordelia Schmid, winner of the Monte-Carlo Woman of the Year Award 2024 for her career to date, explained how Artificial Intelligence is impacting these different sectors and can revolutionise our society in an ethical and positive way. AI in robotics opens the door to many applications that can solve some of the most pressing problems of our time, from sustainability to health.

The discussions also focused on the balance between regulation and innovation to encourage technological progress, and included this interesting comment from Laurent Marochini, one of the Forum’s two moderators: “In Europe, we regulate, in the United States, they innovate and in China, they deliver.”

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Is it a bird? Is it a plane? No, it’s… a flying cactus
March 27th

A crane was used to move the Jardin Exotique’s gigantic opuntia.

A cactus weighing nearly a tonne was seen in the sky over Monaco the other day. Monaco’s Jardin Exotique (Exotic Garden) is closed to the public while major work is being carried out. A news item by French TV channel TF1 showed head gardener Pierre-Louis Grange’s team moving an opuntia cactus that had been growing in the rock for about a century. The project required significant resources, including a crane.

The cactus was safely secured in a wooden frame. At its foot, rocks were broken up to free the plant’s roots. It was a particularly delicate operation. Speaking to TF1, the head gardener said, “the cladodes are extremely fragile. We tried to tie them down as much as possible, but there is always a risk that they will break. They break like glass.”

The team installed a solid frame to prevent damage to the cactus – © TF1 screenshot

It is an unprecedented operation. The team watched, speechless, as the cactus left the ground. “It’s really not a common sight. I don’t think we’ll see this again in our lifetime,” said Pierre-Louis. “That’s why we’re really happy to work here,” added one of the workers. About a hundred metres further up the steep slope, the gigantic cactus was set down prior to being put in a container. We will have to wait until the long-awaited reopening of the Garden to see the extraordinary plant up close.

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Monaco Yacht Club showcases yachting of tomorrow
March 27th

The Yacht Club de Monaco hosted the 2nd Monaco Smart Yacht Rendezvous, supported by the Prince Albert II Foundation, along with major partners such as UBS, Sindalah, the MB92 Group shipyard and Wider Yachts.

The aim of the Monaco Smart Yacht Rendezvous is to promote sustainable solutions and new technologies for the yachting industry, particularly for yachts over 24m.

“All stakeholders in our sector need to be driving technological progress if we are to make the maritime world more sustainable,” said Bernard d’Alessandri, Secretary General of the Monaco Yacht Club. “It has to be a collective effort.” 

The aim of the networking event, which follows on from the Monaco Smart & Sustainable Marina Rendezvous (22-23 September 2024), is to further the energy transition and foster responsible solutions within the yachting industry.

“Navigating a course to a sustainable horizon in the yachting industry is not just about wind and sails, but also innovation and collective commitment,” said José Marco Casellini, Managing Director of Monaco Marina Management.

Innovations examined by an international jury

“From concept to dismantling every decision directs us towards a future where conscience meets excellence. We must harness the air of change and lead our industry towards an ocean of ethical and responsible actions.” 

The innovations were presented to the international jury members, around twenty industry professionals and investors, through 149 remote interviews.

Participants were able to share their expertise and ‘draw the blueprint’ for the Smart Yacht of tomorrow during specific workshops.

“We need startups, we need ideas, we need the young generation to change the mistakes of the past,” said explorer Mike Horn.

Very interested in the exhibition area, the explorer visited the different solutions on display, including Beyond the Sea by yachtsman Yves Parlier, and Coreod Space, a French start-up that was presenting its AI-powered virtual reality headset.


Winners of the Smart Innovative Yacht Awards 2024

The international jury, made up of around twenty yachting professionals and investors, presented two Smart Innovative Yacht Awards this year. Start-up company Composite-Recycling and the Greenboats scale-up received awards.

Guillaume Perben, co-founder and Managing Director of Composite-Recycling. “We recycle composite materials used to build boats and wind turbines and enable them to become new boats in a way that closes the loop of the constituent materials.  We are very pleased to have won this award for the work we’re doing on recycling boats, helping make boating sustainable and something that no longer harms the environment.”

Loris Schimanski, Business Developer at Greenboats: We are delighted to have won this award and been recognised by these industry giants. Over the last few years, we’ve been working flat-out on R&D to try and develop fibres that can compete with glass fibres and, even better, be lighter. It’s a solution based on panels that can be more easily assembled in the big shipyards to reduce the carbon footprint.”

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Yacht Club de Monaco awards exploration and innovation prizes
March 27th

Le Prince Albert II, who is concerned about the issue, attended the event.

The 7th Monaco Ocean Week was driven by the Prince Albert II of Monaco Foundation along with the Prince’s Government, the Oceanographic Institute of Monaco, and the Scientific Centre of Monaco. During the event, the Yacht Club de Monaco led the debates in the field of Grande Plaisance (Super yachting) on Thursday 21 March, and presented the 4th “YCM Explorer Awards by La Belle Classe Superyachts,” an initiative that was launched in 2019.

A jury of professionals awarded prizes in a number of categories: “technology and innovation”, “science and mediation” and “adventure and environmental ethics”. The Sovereign praised the commitment of these men and women: “who are acutely aware of the environment and are playing and will play a crucial role in marine exploration by providing invaluable support to scientists and local communities.”  Prince Albert II also pointed out that the tradition of exploration was deeply rooted in Monaco’s history, and that we owe it to Prince Albert I.

The four winners are:

  • S/Y Cachalote, a 25-metre boat equipped with flexible solar panels
  • M/Y Archimedes, a 68-metre vessel that explores parts of the ocean that are not well sampled, such as remote areas of the Atlantic, Pacific and Southern Oceans
  • M/Y Gigi, a 49-metre boat that symbolises philanthropic adventure, with missions such as distributing tablets to schools to support local education in disadvantaged regions
  • M/V Lattitude, a 47m vessel for technical changes such as realigning the engines to increase efficiency and speed while limiting its ecological impact.

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Carlo App revisits referral programme
March 27th

Carlo users will no longer earn 2% for referrals. But there will be new benefits, reassures the Monaco-based start-up.

If you are a Carlo user, you will no doubt have received an e-mail explaining changes to its referral programme. A number of users commented on the message via social media. The start-up says it has stuck to its mission statement since the app was launched in 2019: “to help local businesses with a local payment app and a local loyalty programme, on a city-wide scale,”  says Antoine Bahri, Carlo’s co-founder.

“The referral programme has fulfilled its purpose”

Carlo is a cashback application, aimed at businesses in the Principality. The start-up receives 10% for every purchase, including 5% cashback for the user, 2% for the referrer (‘sponsor’) and 3% in fees. The 10% was originally borne by the shopkeeper, but in 2020, during the Covid period, the Monaco Government supported the project by covering that cost. “The project was meant to last four months, but in the end it’s been four years,” says Antoine Bahri,  “There’s a real interest, it’s efficient, and all the players are on board.”

Today, Carlo has around 70,000 users, and almost 80% of the Principality’s businesses are members of the programme. “Now it’s time to make some adjustments. The referral programme has really fulfilled its purpose,”  says Antoine Bahri. With the aim of  “optimising costs, we are changing our referral model; it is not disappearing, but it is evolving.” From 1 April 2024, “the sponsor will no longer receive the 2% cashback on transactions made by the person they refer, but will receive five euros for the first payment the referee makes,”  explains the company director.

Secondly, in addition to the five euros, “we will be adding another benefit, with ad-hoc offers. For example, we’re going to set up campaigns such as: ‘During the month of August, if your referees make a certain volume of purchases, you’ll be rewarded with X euros.'” The 2% will be used to fund this feature in future.

Looking further afield?

Carlo, a start-up that has become a key player in the Principality, is constantly expanding. Since 2020, the application has retained its cashback-based model, but a number of new features have also  been developed, such as payment between friends and gift vouchers. Also of note, the “exceptional Carlo bonus”, for civil servants in particular, is coming to an end. Despite a comment saying “many of us still haven’t spent all of our money,” Antoine Bahri assures us that “it’s a success every year, almost 99% of the money is spent.”

At the end of 2022, the application set out to conquer Aix-en-Provence, with convincing results. So where next? Bordeaux, Toulon or Annecy? Many cities are a potential target for the Monegasque company’s expansion.

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Monaco to host “Blue Economy and Finance Forum” in 2025
March 27th

The forum aims to get businesses and innovative public and private funding solutions behind ocean protection.

Monaco continues to work to protect the oceans. On Monday 18 March, the Monaco Oceanographic Institute and the Prince Albert II Foundation formalised their cooperation with the French Organising Committee for UNOC 2022. By signing a Memorandum of Understanding, the Principality committed to hosting and co-organising the Blue Economy and Finance Forum (BEFF) on 7 and 8 June 2025 at the Grimaldi Forum in Monaco.

The “UN Ocean Conference Special Event” will be part of the United Nations Ocean Conference to be held in Nice from 9 to 13 June 2025, co-organised by France and Costa Rica. The BEFF aims to bring together solutions to support the blue economy and safeguard marine ecosystems, in response to Sustainable Development Goal 14 (SDG14).

Getting public and private players on board

The forum, co-chaired by Pascal Lamy and Ilana Seid, will focus on harnessing public and private resources to protect the oceans. The aim is to bridge the gap between the traditional maritime economy and the sustainable blue economy, by fostering dialogue between businesses, banks, insurance companies and public bodies.

By placing the private sector at the centre of blue economy finance, Monaco is supporting a crucial balance between conservation and sustainable economic development. The recommendations and solutions to come out of the forum will then be presented at the United Nations Diplomatic Conference in Nice, which begins the following day. This new event is further proof of the Principality’s strong commitment to protecting the oceans.

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Monaco Matin

Monaco Life

Why are we changing the clocks on Easter Sunday?
March 28th

Daylight Saving Time is set to commence on 31st March at 2am, the same day as Easter Sunday, which has come particularly early this year. We explain the reasoning behind both.

Thanks to digital devices like mobile phones, chances are you won’t miss the Daylight Savings Time change on Sunday, but it’s good not be caught by surprise.

So, prepare to see the clocks move forward 60 minutes from the standard time at 2am on Sunday 31st March, effectively setting it to 3am.

It’s here to stay, for a while at least

The purpose of Daylight Saving Time (DST) during the warmer months is to conserve energy by reducing the need for artificial lighting, to promote leisure activities and economic productivity during the longer evenings, and potentially improve road safety by reducing driving in darkness.

Since 1998, the dates for time changes have been synchronised across the entire European Union, with winter time ending on the last Sunday in October, and summer time begining on the last Sunday in March.

While Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) voted in favour of abolishing the biannual time change in March 2019, Covid-19 put a stop to discussions and the topic is not expected to be revisited in the near future.

Why is Easter so early this year?

The time change uniquely occurs on Easter Sunday this year, which is falling earlier on the calendar.

Easter, a Christian celebration, always falls on the first Sunday following the Paschal Moon, which is the full moon that occurs on or after the March or spring equinox. While Christmas is fixed on a solar calendar, Easter is dependent on lunar cycles, hence the date might change.

A decade ago, in 2014, Easter fell on 20th April. Six years later, in 2020, it was 12th April. This year, it’s 31stMarch.

But rest assured, Easter dates are planned well in advance. Next year, Easter won’t take place until 20th April.

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Sport, innovation and philanthropy to unite at first-ever Padel Best Expo
March 28th

The brand-new three-day Padel Best Expo show will be taking place in and around the Grimaldi Forum in just over a week’s time. Here’s what to expect from the event.

The Grimaldi Forum is gearing up for the premiere of the Padel Best Expo, which will be held from 7th to 9th April.

The fresh new concept from Italian company BSG is essentially a celebration of all things Padel, a sport experiencing rapid international growth and a boom in popularity, through a blend of competitions, networking opportunities, exhibitions and social impact initiatives.

Roberta Ceccarelli, the CEO of BSG says, “This first edition will be a homage to Italian excellence… The Padel Best Expo will bring knowledge, innovation and new trends to the forefront in order to highlight and promote Padel in its entirety.”

Roberta Ceccarelli, CEO of BSG. Photo supplied

The event is structured around three pillars: an exposition on the sport of Padel, the FIP Rise Monaco of the Cupra FIP Tour 2024 and the Givova Five Padel Cup. This latter event will feature five tournaments suitable for a range of abilities, from club-level competitions to tournaments for wheelchair athletes, women, youth players and VIPs from the sports and business sectors. High-profile participants, such as former AC Milan striker Andriy Shevchenko, will add some star power to the event.

See more: Monaco to host inaugural Padel Best Expo and CUPRA FIP Tour 2024 stage this April

The Barbagiuans of Monaco, led by Louis Ducruet, are also set to participate.

“I’m delighted that the Barbagiuans are taking part in this prestigious event, in the presence of a host of celebrities,” said Ducruet. “Padel is a fast-growing sport. Hosting such an international event in Monaco is a real opportunity to continue its development in the Principality.”

A notable aspect of the Padel Best Expo is its commitment to social causes: a portion of the proceeds will benefit Fight Aids Monaco, which was founded by Princess Stéphanie in 2004, and footballer Shevchenko will also be promoting the ‘Football for Ukraine’ movement.

Hervé Aeschbach of Fight Aids Monaco said of the event, “Taking advantage of major sporting events to get health messages across is a great way of reaching a wide audience. That’s why Fight Aids Monaco’s visibility at the Padel Best Expo is a real opportunity.”

Tickets to the Padel Best Expo are available here.

 

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Exclusive: Mayor Flavio Di Muro discusses Ventimiglia’s renaissance powered by Monaco’s investments
March 28th

In an exclusive interview with Monaco Life, Mayor Flavio Di Muro discusses Ventimiglia’s incredible transformation from border town to luxurious international hub, powered by strategic investments from neighbouring Monaco.

Amidst Mayor Flavio Di Muro’s tenure from 2023 to 2028, Ventimiglia is experiencing an exciting transformative phase.

“Ventimiglia’s transition from a border town to an international destination is underway, fuelled by Monaco’s investments and innovative urban development projects,” Di Muro tells Monaco Life.

The impact of Cala del Forte

Mayor Flavio Di Muro is at the helm of a fast-moving ship, steering Ventimiglia towards its destiny as an international hub and leveraging the success of the Cala del Forte marina, officially inaugurated by Prince Albert II on 2nd July 2021 after its October 2020 opening, to increase the town’s visibility on the world stage.

“The marina has not only generated wealth within itself, but has become a catalyst for economic activity throughout Ventimiglia,” says the mayor, highlighting the new port’s role in boosting local tourism and community engagement. “Many locals and tourists alike choose the port for their leisure activities.”

The Principality funded Cala del Forte to serve as an extension to the Ports of Monaco by accommodating the overflow of superyachts that wish to the berth in the Principality each year. The Italian port is linked to Monaco thanks to a fast shuttle, Monaco One, which delivers passengers to the Principality by sea within 10 minutes.

Cala del Forte and Monaco One. Photo credit: Cala del Forte

The development also allowed for the creation of 577 new parking spaces, 15,000 m2 of promenades and gardens, and 35 businesses, including restaurants, bars, offices and boat services.

Among them is the prestigious new fine dining restaurant La Rocca, currently under development, which will further elevate Ventimiglia’s appeal through upscale developments.

See more: La Rocca: work starts on haute cuisine restaurant in Ventimiglia

Investing in the future

Mayor Di Muro is also spearheading efforts to enhance the educational opportunities in Ventimiglia, particularly at the Borgo del Forte Campus, a key feature of the €200 million Marina di Ventimiglia urban regeneration project. Led by Marina Development Corporation and managed by the esteemed Chatsworth Schools, the international school earmarked for a 2026 opening will mark a significant milestone in the city’s educational and urban development. The campus promises to transform Ventimiglia into a vibrant hub for education and tourism, accommodating 800 students and surrounded by a public park, sports facilities and student accommodations.

There is also the revival of a new school project in Ventimiglia Alta as well as the introduction of an elevator linking the marina to the old town, which is set to improve city connectivity significantly.

New elevator connecting marina and the old town of Ventimiglia. Photo by Monaco Life

But Mayor Di Muro believes it is important to have a balanced approach to both public and private initiatives, so the municipality is therefore making significant investments in seismic upgrades for local schools, including Biancheri and the city centre middle schools.

“These upgrades are critical for providing our children with a safe and favourable learning environment,” says the elected official.

See more: New international school: Chatsworth chosen to run Borgo del Forte Campus, Ventimiglia

Strategic approach

A major aspect of Mayor Di Muro’s vision for Ventimiglia is actively enhancing the city’s appeal as a tourist destination. He champions the development of new hotels and the repurposing of historical buildings for hospitality, including the conversion of a former convent in Ventimiglia Alta into a hotel. The abandoned historic building, which had to be bordered up to prevent squatters from settling in, will be able to accommodate dozens of rooms and boasts a view over the bay of Ventimiglia.

“Our goal is to make Ventimiglia even more inviting by supporting the development of new hotel structures,” he says.

Meanwhile, as part of the Borgo del Forte development, there will soon be a new five-star hotel featuring 70 rooms and a luxurious residential component, all overlooking the new port, underway.

Ventimiglia old town. Photo by Monaco Life

Investment in infrastructure

In addition to tourism initiatives, Mayor Di Muro is deeply involved in Ventimiglia’s development of infrastructure and improvements being made to better manage traffic issues and bolster residents’ quality of life.

“We’re working on significant projects, including progress on the Aurelia Bis, a vital road that will alleviate Ventimiglia’s traffic congestion during peak times and certain seasons,” he reveals.

See more: Restaurants in Ventimiglia: a guide to the Italian city’s new dining and leisure scene

The economic and social benefits of these initiatives are evident, says the mayor, with improvements in safety and cleanliness already resulting in a surge in tourism.

“We’ve seen a 14% increase in overnight stays, a clear indicator of our growing appeal as a tourist destination,” Di Muro says proudly.

Fostering local economic growth

The economic impact of Ventimiglia’s transformation can not be understated, including the jobs that it creates for locals both during and after construction. Luckily for developers, there is a very skilled workforce at hand, who in turn are grateful to have this very significant employment opportunity.

“We have a resident population skilled in construction and manual labour,” says the mayor. “Having quality investments in the territory of Ventimiglia also allows these labourers to work close to home, so I believe it’s positive for everyone.”

Borgo del Forte development. Photo by Monaco Life

Integrated approach to affordable housing

Mayor Di Muro acknowledges the challenges of ensuring affordability in premium locations, yet he remains optimistic about Ventimiglia’s strides in affordable housing, thanks to the collaboration with Aziende Regionali Territoriali per l’Edilizia (ARTE). Through initiatives like repurposing the Frati Maristi convent for public housing and the strategic acquisition of homes across the city, Di Muro says Ventimiglia is taking significant steps toward fostering an inclusive and accessible community.

The transformation of the Frati Maristi site, backed by a €5 million investment from the regional authority in Liguria, and the ongoing asbestos removal in Via Caduti del Lavoro signals the beginning of these ambitious projects. The city also plans to purchase 13 additional apartments, on top of the 14 acquired in 2023, for social housing. Meanwhile, a co-housing project, designed to blend private living with communal spaces, is setting a precedent for social cohabitation in Italy that could greatly benefit families and the elderly.

The Sisters de Ordo convent is set to be turned into a hotel. Photo by Monaco Life

Underscoring the benefit of significant investment from the PNRR (National Recovery and Resilience Plan) for public housing redevelopment in Ventimiglia, Di Muro says, “ARTE has been acquiring various homes throughout the city, a strategy I fully endorse. Our goal isn’t merely to avoid isolated neighbourhoods, but to actively promote social integration. This approach ensures we’re nurturing a unified, inclusive community rather than just distributing housing.”

The Terre Bianche initiative

The list of new and exciting projects for Ventimiglia appear to be never ending. As recently revealed by Monaco Life, the Terre Bianche development project, backed by the Municipality of Ventimiglia and utilising land owned by Monaco’s Princely Family, is set to feature a new international botanical school by autumn 2026. Located at the historic Cava Grimaldi site, the project aims to extend Monaco’s space creatively while boosting Ventimiglia’s economy through educational, residential, and recreational facilities.

“This project showcases our commitment to environmental sustainability and educational services,” says Mayor Di Muro.

See more: Monaco poised to sign major development deal for Grimaldi-owned land in Ventimiglia

Central to the environmental sustainability initiative is the expansion of the Euro Velo 8 cycle and pedestrian route and the restoration of the ancient Via Romana path.

“The project meticulously addresses legal standards while showing a profound respect for the landscape, avoiding haphazard construction to ensure that developments are in harmony with the environment,” says the mayor.

The project also includes the creation of a green park, the restoration of historical paths including the Roman Iulia Augusta route, and environmental improvements along the coast. This strategic development aims to preserve the area’s natural and historical heritage while promoting sustainable tourism and local connectivity.

As the city gears up for the development at Terre Bianche project to begin, Mayor Di Muro envisions a future where Ventimiglia will emerge as a model of international cooperation and sustainable development.

“We are ready to sign the urban planning convention, marking the beginning of a new era for Ventimiglia,” he says confidently, highlighting the substantial impact that yet another exciting new project will have on this Italian seaside town.

 

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Photo credits: Monaco Life

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Fluoroquinolones: Inquest into controversial antibiotic with serious side effects begins
March 28th

Following dozens of alarming reports about the serious side effects of fluoroquinolones, commonly prescribed treatments for bacterial infections, the Paris Prosecutor’s Office – the Parquet de Paris – has launched an inquest into the dangers of the drugs.  

Tavanic, Ciflox and Oflocet are all brand names for a class of antibiotics called fluoroquinolones. This type of drug is often prescribed by French doctors to patients suffering from severe bacterial infections, but the fear is now that the medication could be doing more harm than good. 

Reports of side effects including heart problems, neurological disorders and damage to nerves and tendons have been blamed on fluoroquinolones, causing authorities to take a closer look at the treatment option and around 20 individuals are believed to have lodged complaints about the side effects they have suffered, which the French National Medicines Safety Agency (ANSM) says can “appear from the first 48 hours of treatment and up to several months after stopping treatment”.  

INVESTIGATION OPENED 

The investigation was formally opened on 27th March, according to a report by RMC. The Parquet is reported to be taking the case very seriously, with charges of involuntary manslaughter and deception being bandied about.   

“I can no longer lift a plate, I need someone to go with me to the toilet. It has made me completely dependent even though I was someone independent. I am destroyed,” one patient, Françoise, who had used the drug for four days to treat salmonellosis, told RMC. 

AUTHORITIES ON THE CASE 

An awareness on the potential dangers of the drugs has been circulating since 2015. 

Indeed, France’s Ministry of Health has reached out to healthcare professionals in a bid to warn them about fluoroquinolones and, over the past nine years, prescriptions for fluoroquinolones have decreased by 39%.  

For the time being, French authorities have advised, “Particular precautions must be taken in patients treated simultaneously with corticosteroids, in the elderly, in those with renal insufficiency and in patients who have received a solid organ transplant.” 

However, there is no legal obligation of doctors to inform their patients of the possible effects of fluoroquinolones before starting treatment. 

If patients experience any odd symptoms during or after taking fluoroquinolones, they are advised to contact their doctors or head straight to an emergency room if sudden back, chest or abdominal pain arises.   

 

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Photo source: Freestocks

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Women launched nearly half of all new companies founded in France last year
March 28th

More than four in 10 startups that were launched in France during 2023 were headed up by women, according to a new report released by URSSAF.  

Between 2022 and 2023, the portion of businesses created by women in France rose from 40.6% to 43.7%. In numbers, this means that a total of 378,000 new companies were founded by women last year, with the vast majority – 308,000 – having the auto-entrepreneurs status.  

TYPICAL PROFILE  

The women holding auto-entrepreneur status are, on average, 42 years of age, while freelancers, also known as travailleuses indépendantes in France, tend to be a little older at 46 years of age. 

Female auto-entrepreneurs, a third of which blend their startup with other forms of employment, earned €6,598 from their business, according to URSSAF’s data from 2022. This was 19% less than what their male counterparts made, but is explained by the report as being partly due to the larger proportion of women working in lower paid jobs, such as hairdressers, health care workers, aestheticians and administrative services. 

In the freelance realm, women made 20% less per annum when compared to men. The average take-home in 2021 was €39,363.  

To read the report in full, click here.

Read related:

How much do you need to earn to be classed as rich in France? 

 

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NMNM explores the influence of art on filmmaker Pasolini at new exhibit
March 28th

The intersection of art and film is to be explored at the new ‘Pasolini en Clair-Obscur’ – or ‘Pasolini in Chiaroscuro’ in English – exhibition at the Nouveau Musée National de Monaco’s Villa Sauber, which will be opened to the public on 29th March. 

The exhibition will be delving into how classical and contemporary painting influenced the cinematic portfolio of Pier Paolo Pasolini, as well as how his work as a filmmaker was intertwined with his fascination for painting.

Although he was primarily recognised as a writer, Pasolini gained worldwide fame through to his unique contributions to cinema, which featured influences from the Baroque to the modern. His truly individual approach was rich in art references and he loved sets to be decorated with artworks.

Exploring the legacy of Pasolini

The very name of the ‘Pasolini en Clair-Obscur’ exhibition takes its inspiration from the chiaroscuro technique, reminiscent of Baroque art, that featured prominently in Pasolini’s black and white films. It demonstrates his innovative use of celebrated art pieces, such as those by Caravaggio, as dynamic elements in his movies, either transformed into ‘living paintings’ or seamlessly integrated to capture their essence in cinematic moments.

The ‘Pasolini en Clair-Obscur’ exhibition at the Villa Sauber will run until 29th September. Photo by Monaco Life

Demonstrating Pasolini’s deep ties to the art world, the exhibition will also reveal more about his interactions with Francis Bacon and his collaborations with Fabio Mauri. It provides a comprehensive look at Pasolini’s diverse outputs, including his films, poetry and essays.

The exhibition will run until 29th September. Access to the Villa Sauber on 17 Avenue Princesse Grace costs €6 and the site is open daily from 10am to 6pm. During the summer months, these hours are changed to 11am to 7pm.

For more information, click here.

 

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Les Amis du Musée Océanographique de Monaco make largest donation in the association’s history
March 28th

The Friends of the Oceanographic Museum of Monaco, known in French as the Association des Amis du Musée Océanographique de Monaco (AAMOM), have presented a record-breaking cheque of €351,414 to the museum. The funds will go towards the institution’s educational, cultural and environmental missions. 

On Tuesday 26th March, at a ceremony attended by members of the philanthropic association as well as Robert Calcagno, the General Director of the Oceanographic Institute, AAMOM’s Board of Directors gifted the museum with their landmark donation.

“I wish to express my warm thanks to the AAMOM for this generous gesture, which once again demonstrates its commitment and involvement in favor of the actions carried out by the Oceanographic Institute for disadvantaged youth, the transmission of its heritage and the health of the fish in the aquarium,” said a clearly touched Calcagno.

Three key projects

The funds have already been allocated to three key projects that will enhance the museum’s educational, cultural and environmental objectives. These include initiatives to improve the microbial quality of aquarium water, the development of dressings for fish and shark wounds, and the restoration of 1,200 precious yet sadly damaged books.

The donation will also boost the ‘Ocean for All’ programme, which provides support, activities and museum visits to children from underprivileged backgrounds.

Leila Eling, President of AAMOM, emphasised the bond that unites the members of the association, saying, “What ties the Friends of the Museum together is, above all, our love for the ocean. We are ever more numerous, coming from all walks of life, and we are delighted to support the museum’s universal ocean protection policy, its public awareness efforts, conservation [projects] and heritage preservation.”

Read related:

Interview: Robert Calcagno, CEO Oceanographic Institute – Prince Albert I Foundation

 

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Hôtel de Paris cellars to showcase Bordeaux’s finest wines at Journée des Grands Vins
March 28th

With the famous wine cellars of the Hôtel de Paris turning 150 this year, Monte-Carlo Société des Bains de Mer is paying homage to their illustrious contents with a series of special tours and tasting experiences. Up first is an event honouring the Grands Vins de Bordeaux.  

At 10am on 5th April, the sommeliers at the Hôtel de Paris will be opening the doors to the cellars – the largest hotel wine cellars in the world – and decanting a collection of the region’s most renowned wines. 

On the menu will be tastings of six of Bordeaux’s biggest names, including Château Haut-Brion, Clarence de Haut Brion 2016, Pavillon Blanc du Château Margaux 2018, Château Margaux 2019, Château d’Yquem 2021 and Château Yquem 2005, in the presence of the estates’ managers.

Following the degustation, visitors will be invited to head over to the Hôtel Hermitage for a gastronomic lunch at Chef Yannick Alléno’s Pavyllon Monte-Carlo.

The daytime experience will round out with an informative lecture on the vineyards of the Bordeaux region and how they are being affected by climate change.

 

The full experience costs €450 per person, while the tour, tasting and lecture package costs €200.  

A second tour will be taking place in the evening, complete with tastings of Bordeaux’s finest wines, ahead of a six-course gourmet dinner by Chef Alléno. It will be a considerably more intimate and exclusive affair that will cost €2,000 per person.  

Other similar experiences will be offered throughout the year, including a Tenuta San Guido-Bolgheri themed event on 11th June and a Moët Hennessy Diageo occasion on 7th November.  

For more information, please contact caveshoteldeparis@sbm.mc. 

 

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Photo credit: Monte-Carlo SBM

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Stars 80 Encore! to headline Fight Aids Monaco charity concert this summer
March 27th

As part of the Monte-Carlo Summer Festival and Fight Aids Monaco’s 20th anniversary celebrations, Stars 80 will be stopping off in the Principality for a very eighties evening in July. Here are all the details. 

On 6th July at the illustrious Salle des Étoiles, the cast from Stars 80’s latest tour, Encore!, will be the headline act at a 1980s-themed dinner show benefitting Fight Aids Monaco.

The group takes its inspiration from the cult French movie of the same name that tells the story of two diehard fans of 1980s music who run a struggling lookalikes company. On the eve of filing for bankruptcy, they discover a box of tapes featuring forgotten stars of the era and go on a mission to bring them back to the stage. 

The musical adaptation of the film has proved very popular with fans across France, having been watched by more than 4.5 million theatre goers, and now the production is coming to Monaco.  

Ticket prices start at €260 and the event will be raising money for Princess Stéphanie’s Fight Aids Monaco charity, which is celebrating its 20th anniversary in 2024.  

The doors will open at 8pm, with the concert slated to begin at 10.30pm. Valet parking will be available and the event is suitable for ages seven and up.  

For more information, click here.  

Read related:

Disco fever hits Monaco: Inside the spectacular Bal de la Rose 2024

 

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Photo credit: Pixeline Photography / Stars 80 Encore! Facebook

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Sailing: Cagliari-Monaco regatta to return this April
March 27th

The Cagliari-Monaco regatta, a 360-nautical mile race from the Sardinian capital to the Principality’s Port Hercule via the island of Corsica, will be back next month for a much-awaited second edition. 

The inaugural Cagliari-Monaco event was held back in spring 2023 and was a collaborative affair that drew on the local expertise of the Lega Navale Italiana of Cagliari, the Yacht Club in Porto Rotondo and the Yacht Club de Monaco.  

Although the race was dominated by sailors linked to the Yacht Club de Monaco – member Adalberto Miani’s Botta Dritta crossed the finish line in first place with a time of two days, 16 hours, 50 minutes and 46 seconds – the overall event was celebrated as a demonstration of the authentic “bond between Sardinia and the Principality”. 

See more: Sailing: Yacht Club members dominate Cagliari-Monaco podium

Given the success of last year’s race, which was in part a celebration of the Yacht Club de Monaco’s 70th anniversary, it will come as no surprise to fans of sailing that the regatta will be revived again in 2024. 

Scheduled to take place between 20th and 24th April, the fleet of yachts will depart Cagliari at noon and head toward Villasimius and Sardinia’s eastern coast. An intermediate natural gate off the island of Soffi will record the first times of the race, and then it will be free sailing in the open sea from this point on. To complete the regatta, the competing sailors must arrive in Monegasque waters by 4pm on 24th April.  

BEFORE THE RACE 

The days prior to the race will see crews from all over Europe converging on the seaside city of Cagliari as it plays host to a range of events intended to promote the culture of the sea, navigation skills and the links between the maritime communities of Sardinia and Monaco.  

 

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Photo credit: Yacht Club de Monaco

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