Photo credit: Michaël Alesi / Palais Princier de Monaco.
On Tuesday, February 18, His Serene Highness Prince Albert II formally celebrated Monaco’s recognition as the World Capital of Sport for 2025 during a momentous signing ceremony in the prestigious Salle des Glaces at the Prince’s Palace. The event marks a historic milestone for the Principality, underscoring Monaco’s unwavering commitment to excellence in sports and global ethical leadership.
The ceremony was attended by senior Monegasque officials and distinguished representatives from the Association of European Capitals of Sport (ACES), setting the stage for Monaco’s significant role in the international sporting community. Notable attendees included Minister of State Isabelle Berro-Amadeï and Minister of the Interior Lionel Beffre, whose presence highlighted the governmental backing of Monaco’s pledge to sustainable, inclusive, and ethical sporting practices.
Prince Albert, a steadfast advocate for international sports governance and a prominent figure within the International Olympic Committee, took the opportunity to stress the growing influence of small city-states like Monaco in shaping the future of global sports. “A city-state can serve as a model for ethical and sustainable sport,” he declared, emphasizing his belief in the powerful legacy that sports values leave on communities worldwide.
In a key moment of the ceremony, Minister Berro-Amadeï passed the symbolic ACES flag to Prince Albert, who then entrusted it to Minister Beffre, marking the official transition of the World Capital of Sport title. The commemorative plaque was also presented to ACES President Gianfranco Lupattelli, sealing Monaco’s new role as a global leader in the sporting world.
Monaco follows Sofia, Bulgaria, as the World Capital of Sport, and its global reputation for cutting-edge sports infrastructure, accessibility, and dedication to hosting premier international events only continues to grow. Throughout 2025, the Principality will proudly display this prestigious title, welcoming a year of celebrations and sporting events, including the landmark 40th anniversary of the iconic Stade Louis II. The year ahead will undoubtedly further solidify Monaco’s position at the forefront of global sports, as a beacon of innovation, inclusion, and ethical leadership.
As the world watches, Monaco prepares to set the stage for a year of inspiring athletic achievements, cultural exchanges, and a renewed commitment to the unifying power of sport.