Monaco Tribune

Monte-Carlo Rally 2024: Who are the favourites?

Sébastien Ogier, Ott Tänak, Thierry Neuville, Elfyn Evans.. With eight-time winner Sébastien Loeb and two-time reigning world champion Kalle Rovanperä both absent, the four favourites for this 92nd edition should make it an exciting Toyota vs Hyundai duel. 

Sébastien Ogier (Toyota Gazoo Racing WRT)

He only has one goal in mind: to become the first ever driver to win a tenth title in the Principality.

The eight-time world rally champion totally dominated the last edition of the event with nine fastest times over the eighteen stages, and he is determined to lift the trophy, as he did on nine previous occasions.

Some purists will say that one of his victories doesn’t quite count, because in 2009 the Monte-Carlo Rally was part of the Intercontinental Rally Challenge and not the WRC calendar, and that Sébastien Ogier and Sébastien Loeb share the same number of wins – eight.

If he wins this year, the driver from Gap would break the theoretical tie. On roads he knows like the back of his hand and at the wheel of a Toyota that continues to perform as well as ever and is the reigning world champion – also driven by the young and talented Kalle Rovanperä – Sébastien Ogier holds all the cards to claim his 59th WRC victory.

©WRC

Ott Tänak (Hyundai Shell Mobis)

Back at Hyundai just a year after leaving for Ford, the Estonian is coming into the 2024 season with lofty ambitions, at the wheel of a car that helped him finish runner-up in the World Championship in 2022.

“There’s a lot of know-how here, with people who all know what they need to do and how to be better,” he said, convinced of his team’s potential. “If you know where you can make improvements, there are no limits. People know what to do, they just need time to get there.”

Fifth at the last Monte-Carlo Rally after three consecutive drop-outs, Ott Tänak will be keen to do well at the first event of the season, to celebrate his return to Hyundai and prove that he is one of the major challengers for the world crown this season.

ott-tanak-hyundai
©WRC

Thierry Neuville (Hyundai Shell Mobis)

Thierry Neuville remains the lead driver at Hyundai. But with Ott Tänak back, the Belgian knows he’s under pressure.

At the end of a frustrating 2023 season where he once again missed out on the title, finishing third, the five-time world vice-champion and eternal runner-up, now aged 35, has a unique opportunity this year to finally be rewarded for all his efforts.

With Kalle Rovanperä and Sébastien Ogier both competing part-time this year, Thierry Neuville, like Elfyn Evans and Ott Tänak, is one of the favourites for the title of world champion at the end of the season.

Suffice to say that a strong performance on this 92nd Monte-Carlo Rally could get his season off to a great start and boost his confidence.

thierry-neuville-hyundai
©WRC

Elfyn Evans (Toyota Gazoo Racing WRT)

He is certainly the biggest favourite for the win in Monaco, after Sébastien Ogier,. But also the best placed to take advantage of the partial absence of former champions to win the title this year.

So, to get things off with a bang, and state his intentions, the Welshman is coming to Monte-Carlo hungry for victory. Hungry enough to take a bite at Sébastien Ogier?

Fourth last year, Elfyn Evans finished over a minute behind the untouchable Ogier. But the reigning vice world champion, with three victories including the final rally of last season in Japan, has filled his tank to the brim with confidence.

At 34, the Cardiff native knows he’s in the crosshairs, but seems to have gained maturity, consistency and speed, an explosive cocktail that could light up each round of the championship.

elfyn-evans-toyota
©WRC

Continue reading →

International School of Monaco recognised for educational excellence

The Monegasque school has again obtained the precious accreditation awarded by the Council of International Schools (CIS). 

Each year, the CIS awards the accreditation based on stringent criteria. It is the leading international organisation of its kind.

The certification testifies to the quality of learning and of the teaching staff. It also rewards a good working environment for pupils, in terms of child protection, trust and inclusion.

This is a source of great pride for the school, which was founded in 1994 and now has 750 students aged 3 to 18 from over 50 different countries.

Continue reading →

Recruitment day at Nice airport

There are almost 200 vacancies to be filled.

Nice Côte d’Azur Airport and its staff look forward to seeing you on 25 January at Terminal 1, between 9.30 am and 3.30 pm. In partnership with France Travail (formerly Pôle Emploi), the recruitment day is an opportunity to showcase a range of different job vacancies. Some of these can be found on the France Travail website, by searching for #EmploiAeroportNice.

Some are seasonal or fixed-term contracts, others are permanent positions. Here are some of the positions available:

  • VIP Host/Hostess
  • Baggage /passenger service agents
  • Runway personnel
  • Operations officer
  • Parking attendant
  • Customer service agent
  • Infrastructure technicians
  • Car valet

Click here to see the list of vacancies.


More information

  • Thursday 25 January 2024
  • 9.30 am – 3.30 pm
  • Business Centre – Nice Airport Terminal 1

Continue reading →

All you need to know about Monaco’s gyms

CrossFit, bodybuilding, combat sports, personal coaching… There are around ten fitness establishments in the Principality.

Brown House Athletic Club

This is the latest gym to open in the Principality. It offers private sessions with a coach or specific classes for six people. Classes last an hour on average, and there are several different exercise options on offer: WOD [workout of the day], bodyweight and cardio. There are also classes for teenagers and retired people. Reservations can be made via the résasports platform.

  • 41 avenue Hector Otto, 98000 Monaco

Opening hours:

  • Monday to Friday, 7 am to 8 pm and Saturday mornings, 9 am to 12 pm

Prices:

  • €30 for a group class
  • €90 for a private session

Blackout Academy

blackout academy
© Blackout Academy

In the heart of La Condamine, the Blackout Academy is a Monegasque club that offers its members the chance to practise Brazilian jiu-jitsu, muay-thai boxing (Thai boxing), luta livre (a traditional Brazilian form of wrestling), MMA and Extreme Cross Game (ECG), a proprietary Blackout Academy fitness technique.

  • Basement level 3 of the Caisses Sociales administrative building, 11 Rue Louis Notari, 98000, Monaco

User reviews:

“Top coaches, a passionate team, a great atmosphere and it’s hard work.” (Google)

“Great place to train in bjj [Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu] or Thai boxing.” (Google)

Prices :

  • Adults: annual membership from €350 to €600, depending on the sport.
  • Teenagers: annual membership from €300 to €450, depending on the sport.

Opening hours:

  • Monday to Saturday, training sessions according to the gym’s annual schedule.

Fit Factory

fit-factory
©Théo Briand / Monaco Tribune

When the the new Larvotto beach complex opened in 2021, the district found itself with a new gym: Fit Factory. 600m2 on the waterfront with fitness machines and equipment as well as a room dedicated to spin classes — with a video-projection system ensuring total immersion. Group and private classes are also available.

  • Promenade du Larvotto (lower level), Avenue Princesse Grace, 98000, Monaco

User reviews:

“Very good gym. Clean and well-maintained. Friendly staff. Up-to-date equipment. Unbeatable surroundings and view. I recommend it.” (Google)

“Very well located, the gym is clean, a pleasant atmosphere, the view of the sea is very nice, the gym is spacious, the price for a year’s membership is very reasonable.” (Google)

Prices:

  • Annual membership: €1,860

Opening hours:

  • Monday to Friday: 7.00 am to 9.30 pm
  • Saturday and Sunday: 8.30 am to 1.30 pm

Eclub

©Eclub

Located on Boulevard des Moulins, Eclub is a 100% digitally-connected gym. It offers a range of activities and fitness concepts, including boxing, stretching, CrossFit and step workouts. Group training is also possible in the areas reserved for weights, cardio or smart machines.

  • Le Montaigne, 6 Bd des Moulins, 98000 Monaco

User reviews:

“A recently refurbished gym with a great atmosphere: the coaches are nice and attentive without being on our backs, and there is a friendly atmosphere among users. It’s a pleasure to come and work up a sweat.” (Google)

“Excellent location, modern machines, friendly staff.” (Google)

Prices:

  • 1-month subscription: €125
  • 3-month subscription: €350
  • 6-month subscription: €650
  • 1-year subscription: €79/month

Opening hours:

  • From 7 am to 9 pm Monday to Friday
  • From 9 am to 2 pm on Saturdays, closed on Sundays.

Hercule Fitness Club

© Monaco Town Council

Open since April 2018, Hercule Fitness Club is run by Monaco town council, on the Port of Monaco. It offers fitness classes, spin sessions, aquabike and aquagym classes, as well as a personalised coaching programme. The gym is also equipped with modern weights machines.

  • Quai Albert 1er, 98000 Monaco

User reviews:

“A fitness club on a human scale and with a top-notch coaching team. The gym is medium-sized with high-quality machines.” (Google)

“Very warmly welcomed and well advised. Very friendly and smiling staff. A pleasure!!!” (Google)

Prices:

  • Monthly membership: €180
  • Annual membership: €1100
  • Day pass: €25

Opening hours:

  • Monday to Friday from 7 am to 9.30 pm
  • Saturday, Sunday and public holidays from 8 am to 6 pm

39 Monte-Carlo

© 39 Monte-Carlo

Perhaps one of the most exclusive gyms in the Principality. The venue is designed for a personalised experience and fulfils its role as a private sports club by providing several expert coaches, targeted training and access to high-tech sports equipment. All of the on-site fitness trainers have worked, competed and performed in professional sport and dance, including rugby, football, swimming, ballet and motor racing at international level. The venue is part of a wellness and catering complex.

  • 39 Av. Princesse Grace, 98000 Monaco

Prices :

  • Annual membership: €4,900

Opening hours:

  • Open from 7 am to 10 pm Monday to Friday
  • Open from 9 am to 7 pm on Saturday and Sunday

MonaMove

MonaMove Monaco
© Monaco Tribune

MonaMove is an outdoor sports station inaugurated in 2019. In Monaco, there are two of these spots where you can exercise for free, in a very pleasant setting, with a view of the sea; the Oceanographic Museum and the Rock. Powered by solar energy, the area has equipment that can be used independently or via the Monamove mobile app. You can use the equipment from the age of 14.

  • Port de Fontvieille and Port Hercule

User reviews:

“Exercise with a view! Outdoor gym with a breathtaking view of the harbour!” (Google)

“It’s incredible to exercise with these views and in the sunshine.” (Google)

Free admission!

World Class

© World Class Monaco

Located on the border between Monaco and Cap d’Ail, World Class offers fitness, cardio and weight training facilities, as well as an open training area and an open weights area. The club also offers outdoor training for those who wish to prepare for triathlons and other competitions. A sauna and hamam are also available for sports enthusiasts.

  •  6 Av. Marquet, 06320 Cap-d’Ail, France

User reviews:

“Fantastic club, ideal location opposite the Stade Louis 2… full equipment, spa… attentive coaches… It’s not only worth a look but also worth spending time training there !!!!” (Google)

“There’s a great atmosphere, the coaches are there to advise us, the equipment is perfect and the gym is very clean and pleasant. I highly recommend it!” (Google)

Prices :

  • Monthly membership: €450

Opening hours:

  • Monday to Friday: 7 am to 10 pm
  • Saturday to Sunday: 8 am to 7 pm

The Forge

The-Forge-Monaco-min
©The Forge

“A personal training laboratory where you and your body are the only things that matter to us.” That’s how the team behind this Fontvieille gym describe it. In individual or group classes, coaches will guide you according to your needs and your current level. At the gym, strength, power, resilience and well-being are the watchwords.

  • 8 Avenue de Fontvieille, 98000 Monaco

User reviews:

“An excellent location in Fontvieille, the gym is super functional with an unusually nice aesthetic! Ideal for motivating you to get into perfect shape!” (Google)

“The best and most comprehensive gym in Monaco. Excellent instructors, highly qualified, especially for boxing.” (Google)

Prices:

  • Between €30 and €60 per group session
  • €120 for a personalised session

Opening hours:

  • Monday to Friday, 7 am to 8.30 pm
  • Saturday from 9 am to 1 pm

Gymway

On the border between Monaco and Beausoleil, Gymway also offers personalised monitoring of your training. Group classes are also available for beginners and more experienced athletes. These include biking, toning classes, pilates, kettlebells, stretch and zumba. The instructors who work here are state-qualified, and their support can range from personal lessons to simple supervision.

  • 3 Bd du General Leclerc, 06240 Beausoleil, France

User reviews:

“A friendly sports club with a great atmosphere! Shout-out for the Tuesday boxing class led by Adil: cardio and technique guaranteed! I recommend it!” (Google)

“A former member, I’m sorry I’m no longer part of this gym with its family atmosphere, the staff are really top notch, the machines are great, and the group classes look very nice and energetic.” (Google)

Prices :

  • From €69 per month
  • From €65 for a one-to-one class

Opening hours:

  • From 8.30 am to 8.30 pm Monday to Saturday
  • From 9 am to 8.30 pm on Sundays

Monaco’s hotel gyms

It is also possible to work out at the premises of some of the Principality’s prestigious establishments. The Fairmont Fitness Monte-Carlo welcomes hotel guests and members on the 7th floor of the building. Group or private classes are complemented by access to the swimming pool, sauna and steam room, all of which are guaranteed with Gold or Platinum memberships.

  • Open every day 24/7
  • 12 Av. des Spélugues, 98000 Monaco
  • Private class: €90
  • Gold / Platinum annual subscription: €3,000 / €3,540

Just a few steps away, the Thermes Marins Monte-Carlo gym offers a vast space for fitness classes. The programme includes classics such as stretching and Pilates, as well as Piloxing, a combination of boxing, Pilates and dance, and outdoor biking. Aquagym classes are also available. A swimming pool, sauna and steam room are available in the wellness area.

  • Access to the wellness area: €150
  • 2 Av. de Monte-Carlo, 98000 Monaco

Continue reading →

A hotline to prevent school bullying in Monaco

The number is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

A new system has just been introduced in the Principality to combat this terrible phenomenon. On Monday 15 January, the Prince’s Government announced the creation of a dedicated hotline number for reporting bullying at school.

The number, which is available every day at any time, is the fruit of a partnership between the Department of Education, Youth and Sport (DENJS) and the Association d’Aide aux Victimes d’Infractions Pénales (AVIP – a victim support charity).

Children and teenagers who are experiencing bullying or any form of violence at school (physical violence, intimidation, being made fun of, insults, threats, cyberbullying etc.), witnesses, parents and school staff can call this number: +377 98 98 96 96.

Professionals from the DEJNS and AVIP will walk callers through the steps to ensure that the necessary measures are taken to support the victim, as well as those that are required to put an end to the situation in question.

To find out more about the measures the Principality has put in place to combat bullying at school, visit monservicepublic.gouv.mc.

Continue reading →

Monte-Carlo Circus Festival parade – we were there

The big circus festival took place on Saturday 14 January in Monaco. Our journalist Pierluca Leandri helps us relive the parade. 

To launch the 46th Monte-Carlo International Circus Festival, the artists paraded through the streets of the Principality to the Prince’s Palace. There, they performed an hour-long show in front of a large crowd. With music, acrobatics, and animals, it was an impressive show for all ages.

The Princely Family was there to watch too. With their mother, Princess Charlene, Hereditary Prince Jacques and Princess Gabriella were able to say hello to the elephants. Prince Albert II came to encourage the artists and launch the show. The President of the Festival, Princess Stéphanie, was also in the front row, along with her two children, Louis Ducruet and Camille Gottlieb.

Continue reading →

Programme, ticketing, celebrities… the low-down in the run-up to Fight Aids Cup

The Fight Aids Cup is back at Stade Louis-II on 22 January for its 4th edition. The traditional gala match between the Barbagiuans and Cirque FC will again feature some of international football’s most iconic figures.

Marking the 50th anniversary of the Monte-Carlo International Circus Festival and in support of the fight against HIV, two causes close to Princess Stéphanie’s heart, the Fight Aids Cup promises an exceptional evening at the Louis-II.

“We want this edition, which will celebrate several anniversaries, to be a memorable one, with magical moments once again on the pitch thanks to the presence of  international football legends,” said Louis Ducruet, chairman of the Monaco Barbagiuans. “I’m delighted that Fight Aids Monaco will benefit from the development of this event.”

Berbatov, Mexès, Makélélé, Pires…

As part of Prince Rainier III’s centenary celebrations, the Barbagiuans’ president paid tribute to his grandfather, unveiling a collector’s jersey that players from both teams will wear at the event. A way of “celebrating the Builder Prince’s 100th birthday and remembering his love of football and AS Monaco.”

New faces are expected to join the squad for the first time, including Dimitar Berbatov, Philippe Mexès and Claude Makélélé. With a third consecutive participation, Robert Pires will be one of the stalwarts of this Fight Aids Cup 2024.

“It’s always very important for me to be available when solidarity is being promoted through a major sporting event,” said the former France international, 1998 world champion and Euro 2000 winner. “We’re here to support a charity, and that’s a philosophy that resonates with me.”


Practical info

Mock kick-off by Prince Albert II and Princess Stéphanie before the match, scheduled for 6.30 pm.

All proceeds from the evening will go directly to Fight Aids Monaco.

Price: 10 euros (tickets available on site or from the AS Monaco online ticketing service a few days before the event).

Continue reading →

3 Takeaways from AS Monaco’s loss vs. Reims

Despite AS Monaco holding the ascendancy in terms of possession (57% to 43%), shots inside the box (6 to 5), passes in the opposition half (226 to 145), completed progressive passes (87 to 66) and total accurate passes (479 to 316) in their 1-3 loss against Reims, it just wasn’t to be their day.

Even though things could have been different on another night and they were certainly made to pay for any missteps by their clinical opponents, this isn’t to say they deserved to win, though, for ASM were nowhere near their usual standard, which is something Adi Hutter pointed out afterwards.

With this in mind, here’s three takeaways from their clash with Reims.

Uncharacteristically Sub-Par Showing

When speaking after Monaco’s frustrating Ligue 1 loss vs. Reims at home, Hutter cut a disappointed figure, knowing this was a valuable three points they’d given up courtesy of their unsatisfactory showing in front of their home crowd inside the Stade Louis II.

@ASM

Losing a crucial chance to cut the deficit to Paris Saint-Germain atop the table and overtake rivals OGC Nice for second, he’ll be desperate for his team to bounce back and put this result quickly in the rear vision mirror.

While the outcome was a huge negative, most worrying for Hutter was the performance, which was far below the high level his side have typically been operating at this term and a real downer after their incredible cup triumph over RC Lens last weekend.

“First of all, I think it’s AS Monaco’s worst match since I arrived at the club. Everyone was obviously very upset in the locker room after the match. We are also very disappointed for our supporters, who deserved better. We must learn from this defeat. Maybe it’s better that it arrives now rather than in a few weeks. We have to accept it and learn from it, but I can’t take anything positive from tonight,” a dejected Hutter insisted.

“It’s a defeat that comes after our cup qualification in Lens to remind us that every victory is earned and won through a big fight. With this kind of performance, we cannot hope to reach the top three at the end of the season. I am responsible for this team, and I did not expect this match after our performance in the Coupe de France, which was completely different. When you’re AS Monaco, you can’t lose like that.

“I am angry after this defeat. In any case, it may be important for the future, in order to change things. I also have to be self-critical. I have over 1000 matches as a player and coach, and I know these kinds of matches can happen. It’s up to us to react.”

Wanting an immediate response from his troops, expect Les Monegasques to come out firing for their next clash with Rodez in the cup, as they’ll be chomping at the bit to rebound and prove this Reims defeat was just a blip.

International Duty Absentees Sorely Missed

With Les Monegasques missing a host of key players due to AFCON and Asian Cup commitments such as Wilfried Singo, Mohammed Salisu, Ismail Jakobs, Krepin Diatta, Mohamed Camara and Takumi Minamino, this clearly didn’t help them for this one against Reims, who have also lost many heavy hitters courtesy of these tournaments.

ASM vs. Reims Average Positions

Forced to do without so many vital figures, this definitely isn’t ideal and there’s no doubting ASM felt the aforementioned absences in all areas of the pitch. But Monaco will have to get used to doing without them for a fair bit longer too, meaning the current crop will need to step up and prove their worth – just like they did in that famous Coupe de France victory vs. Lens.

Boasting plenty of quality still in their ranks and with new signing in the versatile Thilo Kehrer set to be a huge asset, Monaco will back themselves to get things back on track rapidly, as they’ll be determined to navigate this period as well as possible.

Zakaria Monaco’s Best

Definitely one of ASM’s better performers from this tough day at the office, Denis Zakaria underlined his worth with a strong display in the heart of midfield. 

Putting in a shift full of energy and commitment, he was regularly on hand to support his backline, chime in with crucial interventions and to impose himself on proceedings.

Such a valuable defensive presence due to his unique blend of size, athleticism and physicality, the way he covered the turf to assist his colleagues, pressed assertively and held his own in duels both on and the ground and in the saw him play his part admirably without possession.

Meanwhile, in possession, the Swiss international was coherent with the ball at his feet, knowing when to crisply keep things ticking over with his passing, hit the odd more expansive pass when the opportunity arose and drive forward on the dribble.

By the numbers, the fact he completed 11 ball recoveries, six interceptions, five passes into the final third, three clearances, three dribbles and 49 of his 54 attempted passes underlined his accomplished body of work.

Zakaria’s Heat Map
Zakaria’s Pass Map

Although the result wasn’t ideal, it was positive to see the experienced campaigner produce another solid outing, as the multifaceted, tactically flexible Zakaria continues his encouraging start to life on the French Riviera since joining in the summer.

Continue reading →

A500 closed overnight all week, in Monaco-A8 direction

There will be no access to Monaco tunnel in the Monaco-A8 direction.

You’ll need to plan ahead for your night-time journeys, starting tonight January 15. The A500 will be closed (Monaco-A8 direction) every night from 9 pm to 5 am, until January 19, including Monaco tunnel, but only in that direction.

The closures are to enable tunnel inspections. Vehicles under 19 tonnes should take the La Turbie exit, n° 57. Above that weight, vehicles must use the Metropolitan 6007 and Nice Est exit n° 55.

Continue reading →

Monaco’s most popular baby names in 2023

Some were already in the top 10 in 2022!

It’s a New Year’s tradition. Monaco Town Hall has published the civil registry figures for the previous year. In 2023, 194 weddings were celebrated (three more than in 2022), 64 divorces were registered (compared with 58 in 2022), and 538 deaths were declared (+10).

As for births, over the last 12 months Monaco recorded 804 on Principality soil: 388 girls and 416 boys (compared with 862 births in 2022). But which names were the most widely chosen? Here is the top 5 by gender.

For the girls

  • Louise
  • Chloé
  • Emma
  • Jade
  • Chiara

As in 2022, Chloé and Emma feature in the rankings again (although Emma has dropped two places since last year). Louise, Jade and Chiara have taken the places of Victoria, Alice and Stella.

For the boys

  • Théo
  • Gabriel
  • Léo
  • Leonardo
  • Andrea

Similarly, two names featured already in 2022: Gabriel and Leonardo, the latter in the top spot. In 2023, first place goes to Theo, and Leo and Andrea make an appearance in the top 5. These three have replaced Raphael, Aaron and Louis.

Continue reading →

Circus, costumes and lemons: 4 flagship events on the Côte d’Azur this winter

All winter long, festive events breathe life into the cultural scene of the Côte d’Azur. Here are our favourites!

1. The Monte-Carlo Circus Festival

This is the Principality’s big annual circus festival, featuring ten days of shows and competitions to decide between the world’s best circus performers as they all vie for the prestigious Clown d’Or (Golden Clown) award. The festival kicks off on Saturday 13 January with the grand open-air parade and the elephants’ procession to the Prince’s Palace. This year’s edition celebrates the Festival’s 50th anniversary and will be dedicated to its founder, Prince Rainier III.

Practical information :

  • When: from 19 to 28 January 2024
  • Where: Chapiteau de Fontvieille
  • Good to know: half price for under 12s
  • Prices and bookings on the montecarlofestival.mc website
Enjoy a thrilling experience at the Monte-Carlo Circus Festival. © Frédéric Nebinger

2. The Nice Carnival

For a fortnight, the city of Nice will be buzzing with festivities. The highlight of the carnival is, of course, the float parade. Each year, between 12 and 20 floats take part, decorated in the carnival’s theme, which this year is pop culture. As well as the parades, there’s entertainment all over the city. But will you be brave enough to join in the “flower battles”? The Nice Carnival is a legendary family festival that brings some welcome colour to winter. Don’t miss out!

Practical info :

  • When: from 17 February to 3 March 2024
  • Free for under 5s / reduced rates for 6-12 year olds
  • Prices and bookings on the nicecarnaval.com website

3. The Menton Lemon Festival

This is the 90th edition of Menton’s major citrus fruit festival. Every year, several tonnes of fruit are needed to create the sculptures and giant floats that parade to the rhythms of the Samba, the Salsa and even the French Cancan! On Sunday morning, the city comes alive in a never-ending farandole – a lively Provençal dance – of colour. This edition will celebrate the Olympic year and dedicate its main theme to the upcoming Paris 2024 Games.

Practical information :

  • When: from 17 February to 3 March
  • Free for under 6s/ reduced prices for 6-14 year olds
  • Information and tickets on the feteducitron.com website
Last year, the Lemon Festival celebrated rock’n’roll with a Johnny Halliday tribute float. © Ville de Menton

4. The “Floral Naval Battle” in Villefranche-sur-Mer

Another traditional festival is the “Floral Naval Battle” in Villefranche-sur-Mer. In store for this 120th edition: the “Pointus” boats, decorated with multicoloured flowers, mimosas (a traditional Provençal flower) and carnations, will parade in front of thousands of spectators. The fishermen will wear traditional Provençal fishermen’s garb and pass close to the shore for a spectacular naval battle!

For this 120th edition, there will also be entertainment on offer, including folk groups and a musical show around the citadel of Villefranche-sur-mer.

  • When: Monday 19 February 2024
  • Where: Porte de la Santé and Villefranche-sur-Mer harbour
  • Admission free of charge
  • Information from the Tourist Office on 04 93 01 73 68.

Continue reading →

Monte-Carlo Philharmonic Orchestra: 3 concerts in January

The OPMC is offering a musical start to the year, with two symphonic concerts and a concert for young audiences on the theme of the circus. 

What could be better than an evening with the OPMC, enjoying your galette while listening to music in the warm?

Sunday 14 January

Franco-Canadian pianist Louis Lortie will perform Beethoven’s Concerto No. 4. Under the baton of Bertrand de Billy, we will then take a leap forward in time with Korngold’s superb Symphony in F sharp major .

Wednesday 17 January

In a change of style, actor Joann Mompart, accompanied by the musicians of the OPMC, takes you on a musical journey to the wonderful land of the circus.

An event for all ages, with splendid sand illustrations by artist Marina Sosnina and excerpts from works by Nino Rota and Charlie Chaplin.

Sunday 21 January

This concert concludes the ‘Tribute to Rachmaninoff’ series with his Symphony No. 2, conducted by Eivind Gullberg Jensen. The programme also includes Sibelius’s Violin Concerto, performed by the talented Ukrainian violinist Valeriy Sokolov.

All concerts take place at the Auditorium Rainier III. To book tickets, head over to the OPMC website.

Continue reading →

Ligue 1: AS Monaco defeated by clinical Reims at home

AS Monaco suffered their fifth league defeat of the season by losing 1-3 at home to Reims, as Les Monegasques failed to close the gap to Paris Saint-Germain and OGC Nice on the table.

The Match

Seeing as Adi Hutter was missing a host of important players predominantly due to AFCON and the Asian Cup (just as Reims were), his team selection was quite similar to last weekend, with key men Philipp Kohn and Aleksandr Golovin notably coming into the starting line-up.

With the game getting off to a slow start while both teams settled into proceedings, quality chances were few and far between in the opening half-hour. But Reims sprung to life on 35 minutes by taking the lead through Teddy Teuma’s thunderous shot to ensure Will Still’s men led at the break.

Bringing on Folarin Balogun at half-time, Hutter was eager for his team to start the second stanza on the front foot in their quest to back on level terms. And that they did, when Wissam Ben Yedder found the back of the net with a smart header.

Monaco’s momentum was short lived, however, for Reda Khadra powered Reims back ahead just minutes later with a brilliant goal. Reims then almost doubled their advantage, but Kohn was on hand to apply a fine stop to keep his side in the match.

Despite ASM trying to find an avenue back into the clash and bringing on Myron Boadu, they just couldn’t bulge the back of the net even though the likes of Youssouf Fofana, Golovin and Balogun fired off some decent attempts.

Reims’ late strike from Azor Matusiwa then ended any chances Monaco had of grabbing a point, as they ran out 1-3 victors to move into fifth in the standings.

Hutter’s Debrief

“First of all, I think it’s AS Monaco’s worst match since I arrived at the club. Everyone was obviously very upset in the locker room after the match. We are also very disappointed for our supporters, who deserved better. We must learn from this defeat. Maybe it’s better that it arrives now rather than in a few weeks. We have to accept it and learn from it, but I can’t take anything positive from tonight,” a frustrated Hutter explained.

“It’s a defeat that comes after our cup qualification in Lens to remind us that every victory is earned and won through a big fight. With this kind of performance, we cannot hope to reach the top three at the end of the season. I am responsible for this team, and I did not expect this match after our performance in the Coupe de France, which was completely different. When you’re AS Monaco, you can’t lose like that.”

Key Stats

By the numbers, the fact ASM held the ascendancy in terms of possession (57% to 43%), shots inside the box (6 to 5), passes in the opposition half (226 to 145), total accurate passes (439 to 303) and accurate crosses (5 to 0) illustrated it just wasn’t their day.

Cup Action Awaits

Up next for ASM is a Coupe de France match against Rodez, where they’ll be fully focused on getting back on the winners list to put this disappointing result behind them.

“I am angry after this defeat. In any case, it may be important for the future, in order to change things. I also have to be self-critical. I have over 1000 matches as a player and coach, and I know these kinds of matches can happen. It’s up to us to react,” concluded the Austrian tactician.

Continue reading →

With over 1 million purchases, record year for Carlo in 2023

Launched in 2019, the Carlo app now has 65,000 users.

“We wanted to give consumers real benefits, and we’ve succeeded in doing just that.” These words from Carlo’s creator, Antoine Bahri, sum up a record-breaking year for the payment app designed exclusively for the Principality. “We now have 629 partner businesses in Monaco, that’s a healthy majority of them!” At the heart of the Carlo scheme is the 5% cashback for every transaction made in these shops.

150% more purchases in 2023

Between January and December 2023, Carlo users made some 1,200,000 purchases, an increase of 150% on 2022. According to Antoine Bahri, there are several reasons for this significant increase. “It’s thanks to the retailers who are getting involved, but also thanks to the Carlo community, who are taking advantage of some very attractive offers.” He says: “With the accumulated cashback, they prefer to shop here in Monaco. The more time goes by, the more they buy with Carlo.”

The figures bear this out. In 2022, users made an average of 4 to 5 transactions a month with Carlo, compared with 6 to 7 today. It’s also worth noting that the average shopping basket in Monaco totals around €80.

3.7M euros ready to be spent

Since its launch in 2019, Carlo has been giving its users cashback on every purchase in a partner store. “If we take into account all the cashback paid out, 98% has been re-spent,” says Antoine Bahri. At present, Carlo wallets total €3.7 million, ready to be spent.

And where do app users make all these purchases? “Among the retail categories, the first is restaurants, followed by off-the-peg fashion, health and beauty, and then electronics.” In 2023, on average, an active user spent €2,650 via Carlo.

What are the plans for 2024?

Before talking about what’s next for Carlo, Antoine Bahri wanted to look back at the success of the projects carried out in 2023. One in particular has been embraced by local users: payments between friends. Introduced at the end of 2022, this feature allows users to gift money to others via Carlo sales, to be spent in Monaco. “It’s practical for families, for example, because it means you can share your cashback,” he says, referring to “a success story with more than 6,000 payments made between friends.”

In 2024, users would like to see an option to stagger payments. In practical terms, this would enable users to pay for their purchases in several instalments in Monegasque shops. “It’s still under development, but it’s a feature that a lot of people are asking for,” says Antoine Bahri. Also in the pipeline is the launch of Carlo in a third city after Aix-en-Provence, where the application has been available since the end of 2022.

Continue reading →

Camille Svara, Acting Mayor: “I’m delighted to be able to provide this service to the Principality”

Georges Marsan’s first deputy has spoken publicly for the first time since the mayor’s indictment.

At the beginning of January, we learned that the first deputy mayor, Camille Svara, is now standing in for Georges Marsan for an indefinite period following his indictment for “active bribery of a national public official”, “passive bribery by a national public official”, “active and passive influence peddling”, “unlawful taking of interest by a national public official” and “criminal conspiracy.”

After an initial interview with our Monaco-Matin colleagues at the first local council meeting of the year, in which she spoke for the first time, Camille Svara also answered questions from Monaco Info.

“I’m not the actual Madam Mayor, Mr Marsan is still the Mayor,” she said. “I am standing in for him during his absence. Obviously my life has changed, because I’m at the Town Hall much more often. It’s become my second home. Which is normal, and I’m happy to be able to provide this service to the Principality.”

camille-svara-monaco-georges-marsan
Camille Svara is standing in for Georges Marsan for an indefinite period – © Ameller

Until recently, she was in charge of social affairs and the Multimedia Library, but now Camille Svara has to “keep an eye on everything”[…]“I have to consult with those in charge of all the delegations,” she says. “It’s not too complicated, because we’re lucky to have great staff, who have of course been very shaken and distressed, but they’re here and they’re getting on with the job.”

Confirming that, despite recent events, all the departments at the Town Hall were running smoothly, Camille Svara also told Monaco-Matin that there was no question of her being elected to replace Georges Marsan: “There’s no basis for that […] It would only happen if the mayor resigns or the minister of state is dismissed. […] For the time being there is no election, unless the council doesn’t support me and everyone resigns.”

Continue reading →

Page 20 of 215 - <  16  17  18  19 20 21  22  23  24  25  26  27  28  29  30  >