Pool FIGHT AIDS CUP 2025
In the heart of Monaco, where luxury and prestige often take center stage, one sporting event transcends the glitz and glamour: the Fight AIDS Cup. A powerful celebration of sport, community, and, above all, solidarity, this event embodies the very spirit of Monaco—one that is driven by a passion for life, a commitment to causes that matter, and an unshakable devotion to the collective good.
At the forefront of this extraordinary initiative is the Barbagiuans of Monaco, a team that represents not just the love for football, but a deep commitment to charitable action. Their ethos resonates deeply with the values of Monaco itself—solidarity, conviviality, and a ceaseless drive to make a difference. And this year, as the Fight AIDS Cup returned for its 2025 edition, it became abundantly clear that the Barbagiuans’ growth isn’t just measured by goals scored, but by their engagement in initiatives that bring the community together, inspire change, and leave an indelible mark on the global fight against HIV/AIDS.
Monaco’s Honorary President of the Barbagiuans, H.S.H. Prince Albert II, has always been a strong supporter of the event. With a sense of pride, he remarked on the extraordinary evolution of the Barbagiuans—not just in terms of athletic prowess, but also in their unwavering dedication to social causes. “It’s a group that does Monaco proud,” he said, his words carrying the weight of both personal admiration and genuine pride for a team that continually exceeds expectations.
For the Prince, the Fight AIDS Cup is far more than a mere exhibition of football talent. It is a celebration of collective action, a testament to the power of sport to rally people around causes that transcend boundaries and generations. "This evening illustrates the power of sport and collective action to advance causes that transcend borders and generations," he noted, underscoring the event’s central role in raising awareness and funds for a crucial cause.
This year, in a groundbreaking move, the Barbagiuans Business Club was launched alongside the match itself. A collaboration with the Monaco Economic Board, this innovative initiative brought together the business community to forge new connections while supporting the Fight AIDS Cup’s noble mission. It was an evening of camaraderie, where the partnerships that had made the event’s success possible were celebrated, and where new alliances were formed to continue the battle against HIV/AIDS.
And as the business leaders and philanthropists mingled, the legendary players prepared for their moment of glory on the field. With H.S.H. Prince Albert II and Louis Ducruet at the helm, and football icons such as Patrice Evra, Franck Ribéry, Robert Pirès, and Maxime Gonalons on hand, the stage was set for an unforgettable match—a clash of sporting titans for a cause greater than any trophy.
A Thrilling Match for a Worthy Cause
On the pitch, the action was as intense as it was emotional. Defending champions, CIRQUE FC, were eager to retain their title, while the Barbagiuans, captained by Louis Ducruet and supported by football legends like Youri Djorkaeff and Ludovic Giuly, were determined to reclaim the trophy they had won just a year ago.
As the match kicked off, the atmosphere was electric. The first half saw CIRQUE FC take an early lead with a stunning strike from Anthony Modeste, aided by the ever-present Franck Ribéry. But the Barbagiuans were not to be outdone. Led by the ever-committed Evra and a rejuvenated Giuly, they rallied back, with Giuly’s equalizer sending a wave of optimism through the stands.
It was a game of momentum shifts—CIRQUE FC regained the lead only to see the Barbagiuans respond with a brilliant volley from Sonny Anderson. But with the stakes rising and the match tightening, CIRQUE FC proved their mettle once again. Anthony Modeste’s second-half hat trick put the defending champions ahead, even as the Barbagiuans pushed valiantly to keep the match in their favor. Despite their relentless effort, the Barbagiuans could not quite overcome the skill and experience of CIRQUE FC, and in the final moments, a goal from Sako sealed the victory for the defending champions, 5-4.
Though the Barbagiuans fought valiantly and never gave up, the day belonged to CIRQUE FC. But beyond the scoreboard, this was more than just a game—it was a celebration of unity, of sport’s power to inspire, and of the shared commitment to a cause that affects millions worldwide.
The Gala: Celebrating the Spirit of Giving
After the final whistle, the focus shifted to the charity gala that followed. Here, the spirit of solidarity continued to shine as funds were raised for Fight AIDS Monaco. The 'Jeannot Petit' trophy, named in honor of the legendary player, was awarded to Alfred Vitalis, a historic figure in Monaco football who had played alongside Jean Petit throughout his life. In his quiet humility, Vitalis accepted the award, his legacy intertwined with the very essence of the Barbagiuans.
And then there was Robert Pirès—undoubtedly the man of the match. The French football icon’s contributions to CIRQUE FC were nothing short of brilliant, and his performance served as a fitting testament to his enduring talent and commitment to the cause.
Louis Ducruet, President of the Barbagiuans, summed up the event perfectly: “I’m delighted with this anniversary edition. It was a great success, both on the pitch, with the presence of football legends, a great show and nine goals, and off the pitch, with substantial funds raised for Fight AIDS Monaco, the ultimate goal of our campaign.”
As the evening drew to a close, one thing was crystal clear—the Fight AIDS Cup was much more than a football match. It was an emblem of what happens when passion for sport and a commitment to charity come together. In Monaco, the legacy of the Barbagiuans continues to grow, not only as athletes, but as passionate advocates for those in need, leaving a legacy that will surely inspire future generations.