As the Principality prepares for the high-octane spectacle of the Monaco Grand Prix, the city’s social and sporting calendar kicked off this week with the second annual Racing Stars Football Cup at Stade Louis-II. The event, which blends athletic competition with charitable outreach, saw the Barbagiuans de Monaco defeat the Nazionale Piloti with a final score of 6-2.
Organized by the Barbagiuans de Monaco, the match served as a high-profile prelude to the Grand Prix. The home side, led by President Louis Ducruet, featured a diverse squad of sporting legends and media personalities. Notably, Brazilian football icon Ronaldinho anchored the lineup, playing the entirety of the first half and providing the technical brilliance that has defined his career.
The Barbagiuans’ clinical approach was bolstered by the experience of former professionals, including Ludovic Giuly, Sébastien Squillaci, Gaël Givet, Flavio Roma, Olivier Veigneau, and Valère Germain. By halftime, the team had established a 4-1 lead, a surge that included a goal from Ducruet.
The Nazionale Piloti, captained by Formula 1 driver Pierre Gasly, fielded a roster prominent in motorsport, including Carlos Sainz, Isack Hadjar, and Felipe Massa, alongside football figures Leonardo Bonucci and Clarence Seedorf. While the drivers reduced the deficit to 4-2 in the second half, the Barbagiuans regained momentum to close out the match.
Beyond the pitch, the event maintained a focus on its philanthropic mandate. Proceeds from the match are designated for Mercy Ships and Les Soins de l’Espoir, organizations supported by the Barbagiuans to provide humanitarian and medical assistance.
Reflecting on the event’s success, Ducruet noted the alignment of the stadium atmosphere and the collective commitment of the participants. "It is a great source of pride for the Barbagiuans to open Monaco Grand Prix week with an event like this and to continue promoting our values of sharing, solidarity, and togetherness," said the organization's president.
The evening also featured a halftime performance by DJ Yann Muller, further establishing the match as a central pillar of the week’s festivities. As the final whistle blew, the focus in the Principality officially transitioned from the pitch to the grid.
Photo credits: Frédéric Nebinger / Prince’s Palace of Monaco