A new season has begun for AS Monaco Rugby, and the club has marked the occasion with a cocktail for its members and partners at Centre Cardio-Thoracique. The gathering was an opportunity for the team to speak about their ambitions for promotion into Fédérale 1 and their commitment to developing rugby in the Principality.
On 18th September, AS Monaco Rugby hosted a cocktail event at the Centre Cardio-Thoracique de Monaco in the presence of its players that brought together key partners and sponsors, including the Conseil National, as well as the club’s many fans and supporters.
Heading into the 2024/25 season, the club hopes to build on the successes of its 2023/24 campaign, which saw the premier team finish second in Fédérale 2, narrowly missing promotion into the Fédérale 1 league. Now, the club is aiming to achieve that promotion and reaffirm rugby’s place in the Principality. The women’s team also made strides last season.
Thomas Riqué, President of AS Monaco Rugby, told Monaco Life, “I am so happy to see other sports develop in the Principality and see such excellent results. The club keeps growing, especially with younger members, which makes me very proud. None of this would be possible without passion and quality.”
Thomas Riqué, the president of AS Monaco Rugby, gifts a poster of the Stade Prince Héréditaire Jacques to Thomas Brezzo, the president of the Conseil National. Photo by Monaco Life
With a strong focus on player development, AS Monaco Rugby has pledged to continue its investments in its youth academy, which is recognised as one of the best in the region. The programme is open to both boys and girls.
Click here to see the schedule of games planned for the coming months.
Monaco celebrated a new chapter in its artistic history during the 15th edition of the Goodwill Ambassadors Awards Gala. Organised by the prestigious Monaco Ambassadors Club (MAC), the evening paid tribute to an extraordinary ambassador for the Principality, the famed singer and composer Umberto Tozzi.
Christian Moore, president of the Monaco Ambassadors Club, opened the gala by expressing his gratitude to those who contributed to the success of this iconic event. He also acknowledged key partners and sponsors, including VistaJet, Plenia Travel, Barclays Bank, and Monaco Life, for their unwavering support of MAC’s mission to elevate Monaco’s global presence. Among the evening’s sponsors were PIAFF Champagne and the Italian luxury brand Federica Bonifaci, whose haute couture creations were showcased in a captivating fashion show that added glamour to the event.
The portrait created live during the event by artist Michael Raivard. Photo source: MAC
Umberto Tozzi: an artist and ambassador
This year’s ceremony was particularly emotional as the audience welcomed Umberto Tozzi, a legendary figure in international music, best known for timeless hits such as Ti Amo and Gloria. With over 50 years in the music industry, 80 million albums sold, and more than 2,000 concerts worldwide, Tozzi has become a symbol of Italian and global musical culture.
Having resided in Monaco since 1992, Tozzi’s connection to the Principality is strong, highlighted by his participation in the wedding of Prince Albert II in 2011. During the pandemic, he organised a virtual concert from Monaco’s iconic Salle des Étoiles to support artists and technicians impacted by the crisis.
Prince Albert II presented the 2024 Goodwill Ambassador Award to Umberto Tozzi, recognising both his notable career and his longstanding connection to Monaco.
Prince Albert with, from left to right, Riccardo Giraudi, (Board of Directors), Mike Powers (Vice-President), Filippo Ghirelli (Co-President), Umberto Tozzi, Monika Tozzi, Alessandra Sparaco (General Secretary), Christian Moore (President), Luc Leleux (Treasurer), and Eric Brundage (Board of Directors)
A farewell tour and a special tribute
The gala also served as an opportunity to celebrate Tozzi’s final world tour, L’Ultima Notte Rosa: The Final Tour. Accompanied by a 21-piece orchestra, Tozzi is offering his fans a final musical farewell across four continents. A live painting of Tozzi was created by Michael Raivard during the event, which the artist signed before donating it to the Prince Albert II Foundation, to be auctioned for charity.
In homage to the much-loved Munich beer festival, Monaco will be holding its own Oktoberfest celebrations over three evenings at the Marché de la Condamine. Here are all the details.
It’s time to air out your lederhosen: the Principality is throwing its hat into the ring of global Oktoberfest festivities this autumn with three nights of events inside the Marché de la Condamine’s Halle Gourmande.
Between 10th and 12th October, from 7pm each evening, the market will be transformed into a Bavarian beer hall, complete with music from the Tyrolfest Orchestra.
Traditional Munich dishes will be served up by the market’s participating vendors, and there will be beers aplenty for guests to enjoy.
This is always a popular event, so be sure to reserve a seat at a table with one of the market sellers inside the food court.
Monaco has renewed its commitment to the fight against cancer by supporting the International Atomic Energy Agency’s (IAEA) use of nuclear technology for cancer treatment.
During the 68th General Conference of the IAEA, held in Vienna from 16th to 20th September 2024, Monaco signed a new funding agreement for the “Rays of Hope” initiative, extending its support for the period 2024-2025. This initiative focuses on improving access to radiation therapy, a crucial treatment method for cancer, particularly in low- and middle-income countries.
Nuclear technology, particularly in the form of radiation therapy, plays a critical role in the global fight against cancer. By leveraging advanced scientific methods, the IAEA promotes peaceful applications of nuclear technology to address public health challenges like cancer. The “Rays of Hope” initiative, supported by Monaco since 2022, enhances the capacity of countries to use radiation safely and effectively for cancer treatment, a necessity given that 70% of cancer deaths occur in developing nations.
Monaco’s continued backing of the IAEA aligns with its commitment to Sustainable Development Goal 3 (SDG 3), which seeks to reduce premature mortality from non-communicable diseases, such as cancer, by 2030. With cancer cases expected to reach 24 million annually by the end of the decade, Monaco’s support helps ensure that nuclear technology can be used to save lives globally, particularly in regions where access to advanced medical treatments is limited.
This partnership highlights Monaco’s dedication to improving global health through innovation and technological advancement, contributing to the worldwide effort to combat one of the leading causes of death.
Main photo: Isabelle ROSABRUNETTO, Director General of the Department of External Relations and Cooperation, signed on Tuesday 17 September 2024, with Mr. Rafael Mariano GROSSI, Director General of the IAEA, a Financing Agreement for the Rays of Hope initiative for the period 2024-2025. Source: Monaco Government Communication Department
Interview: Gaëlle Tallarida on propelling the Monaco Yacht Show to the forefront of yachting
From team leadership to eco-friendly innovation, Gaëlle Tallarida discusses her role in shaping the Monaco Yacht Show into a world-class event and how it continues to redefine luxury yachting.
Established in 1991 as a broker-focused event, the Monaco Yacht Show (MYS) has grown into one of the world’s premier superyacht showcases. It returns to Port Hercules from 25th to 28th September for its 33rd edition.
Gaëlle Tallarida, involved with MYS since its early days and managing director since 2010, has been instrumental in its success. Under her leadership, the show attracts over 27,000 visitors annually, including top industry figures and enthusiasts.
The total value of yachts at MYS 2023 was around €4.3 billion, showcasing 117 yachts, with nearly half brand new. This year, over 120 superyachts and 60 tenders will be displayed, with more than 20 entries over 50 meters.
The global superyacht market, valued at USD $19.44 billion in 2024, is forecasted to reach USD $40.17 billion by 2031. The rise in high-net-worth individuals worldwide has driven the industry’s growth, as superyachts symbolize the ultimate status for luxury-seeking consumers.
Monaco Life’s Features Journalist, Celina Lafuente de Lavotha, spoke to Gaëlle Tallarida about her career, her impact on MYS, and the show’s future.
Gaëlle Tallarida. Photo credit: Valeria Maselli
Monaco Life: What attracted you to work in event management?
Gaëlle Tallarida: My passion for organising events began at a very early age, with a memorable experience in business school where I organised a national theatre festival for students from business and engineering schools. This initial thrill for event coordination naturally led me to extend my ambition to work for a world-class event. I joined the Monaco Yacht Show in 1998 after completing my master’s in business and marketing at Skema Business School. Becoming Managing Director in 2010 allowed me to channel that passion into making the Monaco Yacht Show the leading event in the superyacht sector. I’m proud to combine my love for event planning with the dynamic world of yachting.
What are your primary responsibilities?
Since my early days at the Monaco Yacht Show and my subsequent appointment as Managing Director in 2010, my primary responsibility has been to oversee the entire event. Organising such a prestigious show demands meticulous planning and execution. I work closely with our dedicated teams to ensure every detail is carefully considered and every aspect of the event meets our high standards. Our constant communication with exhibitors, partners, and local institutions ensures a seamless experience. Our focus is on maintaining the show’s position at the forefront of the yachting industry, ensuring it evolves with the market while consistently delivering the best quality.
They say you’re only as strong as the team around you. Please tell us about the people in your squad.
Our team, consisting of 20 dedicated professionals, each brings unique expertise to different areas. What unites us is a shared vision for the Monaco Yacht Show. We are grouped into specialist teams, who work seamlessly together to ensure every aspect of the event is meticulously planned and executed. Each member’s crucial role in delivering an exceptional experience, from logistics to marketing, strengthens our team, and the Monaco Yacht Show is the world-class event it is.
How did you help increase the show’s success and growth?
Our team contributed to the Monaco Yacht Show’s success by maintaining constant communication with exhibitors and partners throughout the year. By listening to their needs and understanding their goals, we refined the event, offering a platform that aligns perfectly with the growth and development of their activities. This ongoing dialogue ensures that the MYS remains relevant, innovative, and valuable, driving its continued growth and reinforcing its position as the premier event in the yachting industry.
Sustainability Hub at the MYS. Photo source: MYS
What changes have you introduced while at the helm of MYS?
Since I took over as Director of the Monaco Yacht Show, I have introduced many new features to enhance the overall show experience. One of these is the Upper Deck Lounge, an exhibition and lounge space dedicated to showcasing major luxury brands in a sophisticated and exclusive setting. Another highlight is the luxury car exhibition in the Adventure area, which beautifully integrates the world of yachting with other high-end markets, offering visitors a unique and immersive experience.
In 2022, we launched the Yacht Design & Innovation Hub, a dedicated space to showcase cutting-edge yacht design and technology, providing a platform for industry leaders to present their latest innovations and for visitors to experience the future of yachting. The same year, we created the Sustainability Hub to promote environmentally friendly practices and underline Monaco Yacht Show’s commitment to environmental responsibility. This hub features a range of initiatives and exhibits that highlight the importance of sustainability in the industry and inspire positive change.
What are your ongoing goals for an eco-responsible MYS?
We continuously work to reduce our environmental impact by implementing more eco-friendly practices across all aspects of the event. We also use the show to promote sustainable solutions and innovations within the industry. We aim to drive positive change and contribute to global conservation efforts by partnering with key organisations and supporting environmental initiatives. This commitment to sustainability is critical to our ongoing goals for the Monaco Yacht Show.
What are the demands of organising such a show on land and water?
Organising the world’s greatest on-land and in-water superyacht event in the heart of one of the tiniest countries presents unique challenges that require unparalleled logistical precision. Coordinating such a massive event in Monaco involves close collaboration with local institutions, port authorities, and event suppliers to ensure everything runs smoothly, from the setup of the exhibition space to the management of visitor flow. Our goal is to deliver an extraordinary show while ensuring that the daily life of Monaco’s residents remains as undisturbed as possible. This delicate balance demands meticulous planning and a strong partnership with the local community, making the Monaco Yacht Show a remarkable feat of coordination and excellence.
View of the Prince’s Palace and the yachts at Port Hercule during the MYS. Photo source: MYS
What makes the show in Monaco unique and special?
The Monaco Yacht Show is like the horological equivalent at sea, where each detail, much like the intricate gears of a high-precision timepiece, is meticulously crafted. This iconic event brings together the industry elite in the opulent setting of Monaco, perfectly blending business, innovation, and prestige. With an exclusive programme of events, global promotion, and flawless organisation, the MYS is not just a show—it’s the beating heart of luxury and excellence in the yachting world.
Which are the top superyachts expected to participate in 2024?
The 2024 Monaco Yacht Show will feature 120 superyachts, including eight vessels over 70 meters and 48 brand-new deliveries. The largest yacht, Kismet by Lürssen, measures an impressive 123 meters. With such a diverse collection of 120 unique and remarkable models, it’s challenging to single out a definitive top list of yachts. These figures emphasise the exceptional quality of this year’s exhibition and reflect the ongoing evolution in yacht design. The participation of 48 new deliveries underscores the industry’s recognition of the Monaco Yacht Show (MYS) as the premier platform to showcase their masterpieces to the world.
What are your job’s toughest challenges and most rewarding aspects?
The most difficult challenge in my job is balancing the complex logistics of organising such a high-profile event while ensuring that every detail aligns with our vision of excellence and meets our clients’ expectations. Coordinating with numerous stakeholders and managing the requirements of the Monaco Yacht Show is very complex. However, the most rewarding aspect is seeing the event come to life and the positive impact it has on the yachting industry. Seeing the hard work of our team result in a successful show where innovation, luxury, and sustainability come together makes all the challenges worthwhile.
Can you share some novelties expected during this 33rd edition of MYS?
The 33rd edition of the Monaco Yacht Show consolidates its thematic exhibitions—the Yacht Design & Innovation Hub and the Sustainability Hub—for the third year, underscoring our commitment to groundbreaking design and eco-friendly solutions. We’re also introducing a series of conferences focused on design, innovation, and sustainability, providing valuable market intelligence and insights into how the yachting industry addresses environmental responsibilities.
The Monaco Yacht Show is certainly a sight to behold. Photo source: MYS
On the eve of the Monaco Yacht Show, you’ll co-host the 2nd edition of The Honours with Superyacht Life. What is the role of this event?
The Honours event, co-hosted with the Superyacht Life Foundation, plays a pivotal role in celebrating and recognising individuals in the superyacht industry who are driving positive change. It honours those who have significantly contributed to sustainability, diversity, innovation, and philanthropy, showcasing the industry’s potential to inspire and impact the world positively. This event highlights the industry’s commitment to progress and the broader good beyond the primary perception of a lifestyle industry.
Please tell us about the Sapphire Experience and the Captain’s and Crew Lounge.
The Sapphire Experience at the Monaco Yacht Show provides VIP guests exclusive access to various luxurious services, including private tours of the most stunning yachts, personalised concierge assistance, and a dedicated lounge with premium amenities. Guests can enjoy bespoke hospitality in an elegant setting, ensuring a unique and memorable experience.
The Captain’s and Crew Lounge provides a stylish retreat for yacht captains and crews, offering relaxation, networking opportunities, and specialised resources to support their professional and social needs. Both enhance the Monaco Yacht Show experience with tailored, premium services.
Where do visitors come from? How do you measure activity at MYS?
Visitors to the Monaco Yacht Show come from around the world and include ultra-high-net-worth individuals, yacht owners, and industry professionals. While we track attendance numbers (27,223 participants in 2023), our focus is on the quality of attendees rather than just the quantity. We aim to connect exemplary visitors with the right exhibitors, ensuring meaningful interactions and valuable opportunities. We emphasize the profiles and interests of our guests to foster productive relationships and enhance the overall experience for exhibitors and attendees.
What is your vision for MYS going forward?
My vision for the Monaco Yacht Show is to solidify its role as the premier marketplace for the super yachting industry, where innovation and excellence are showcased and celebrated as the driving forces for the sector’s future. We aim to elevate MYS as an educational hub offering market intelligence, helping industry leaders and newcomers understand the proactive role of yachting in addressing global challenges, particularly sustainability. By fostering a culture of collaboration and forward-thinking, MYS will continue to be at the forefront of shaping the future of yachting.
Since the shock announcement that evening and early morning trains between Nice and Ventimiglia would be cancelled for a full nine months, the Monaco Government has been working hard to find a solution to the chaos the plans mean for commuters and visitors to the Principality.
Following a series of high-level discussions that culminated last week with a meeting between Céline Caron-Dagioni, Monaco’s Minister of Equipment, Environment and Urban Planning, and Jean-Pierre Serrus, Vice-President of the Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur region in charge of Transport and Sustainable Mobility, as well as representatives from SNCF Voyageurs and SNCF Réseau, the Monaco Government has achieved its goal of finding a viable workaround to the mass cancellations.
Initially, the SNCF had announced that all trains after 9pm and before 6am would be cancelled from Sunday through Thursday until 26th June 2025. The cancellations, the national network said, were necessary in order for workers to perform essential maintenance works and upgrades to sections of the line between Nice and Ventimiglia. More information on this can be found here.
The Monaco Government, however, immediately fought back against these plans, with Minister of State Didier Guillaume saying, “I am deeply shocked to read that trains will no longer stop in Monaco from 9 PM onwards. This is unacceptable. We must be respected with a certain quality of service and not just be considered as financial contributors.”
Its efforts to hammer out a solution have now, thankfully, proved fruitful, and the finer details of these alternative travel services were confirmed on Monday 23rd September by the government. They include a reduction in the number of evening cancellations as well as an expanded bus replacement programme.
Evening services
The last evening train from Monaco to Nice will now depart at 10.02pm, meaning that the 10.10pm, 10.18pm and 11.20pm trains will still be cancelled. Two replacement buses will depart the Principality at 10.45pm and 11.30pm in a bid to make up for the lack of train links.
In the direction of Menton and Ventimiglia, the last train will now leave Monaco at 9.55pm. The 10.18pm, 10.46pm and 11.14pm trains will be scrapped. Replacement buses will be leaving the Principality at 10.45pm and 11.15pm.
Early morning services
There will be no cancellations to the early morning train services from Nice to Monaco. As usual, the first train will depart Nice at 5.40am.
The first train from Ventimiglia will be at 5.47am, meaning that the earlier 5.17am train will still be cancelled. Instead, passengers can use the 5.15am replacement bus from Ventimiglia or hop on at Menton at 5.45am.
“Based on observed usage, the composition of bus replacements may be adjusted to correspond to demand and actual passenger attendance,” says a representative for the Monaco Government.
Event days
Train services will be fully restored in the event of a major sporting occasion in Monaco, such as the three upcoming UEFA Champions League matches at the Stade Louis II.
