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Month: February 2025

Rybolovlev case dismissed: Monaco Court clears billionaire of all charges

by: Cassandra Tanti
27/02/2025

Monaco’s Court of Appeal has annulled all criminal proceedings initiated in September 2017 against Russian billionaire Dmitry Rybolovlev and his lawyer, Tetiana Bersheda. The ruling, delivered on 27th February, follows a June 2024 decision by the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) that deemed the extraction and use of data from Bersheda’s mobile phone a violation of Article 8 of the European Convention on Human Rights, which safeguards the right to private life.

The ECHR’s unanimous judgment criticised the investigative actions of Monegasque authorities, stating that the scope of the investigation had been excessively broad and lacked necessary safeguards to protect Bersheda’s professional privilege as a lawyer. The Court noted that the investigating judge had authorised a comprehensive telecommunications report of Bersheda’s phone without clear limitations, leading to the massive and indiscriminate collection of personal data, including previously deleted messages.

See: Monaco investigation into Lawyer Bersheda violated privacy rights, rules ECHR

In light of the ECHR’s findings, the Monaco Court of Appeal, upon the request of the investigating judges and with the agreement of the General Prosecutor’s Office, concluded on 27th February that the proceedings were fundamentally flawed. The court agreed that the case against Rybolovlev and Bersheda was built solely on evidence obtained from the unlawful examination of Bersheda’s phone. Consequently, the criminal proceedings initiated in September 2017 were annulled.

“The only conceivable decision was to annul all of these irreparably flawed proceedings, in which Dmitriy Rybolovlev and his lawyer were unjustly indicted in 2018,” stated Rybolovlev’s lawyers in a statement.

The development marks the conclusion of all legal actions against Rybolovlev and Bersheda in Monaco.

In October 2024, the Office of the Attorney General of Switzerland took note of the ECHR ruling and dismissed the criminal proceedings that were based on the unlawful use of Bersheda’s phone. In November 2023, Rybolovlev was cleared of charges related to an alleged invasion of privacy, and in March 2024, Bersheda was acquitted of similar allegations. With the annulment of the 2017 proceedings, there are no longer any criminal cases pending against them in the Principality.

The legal saga, often referred to as “MonacoGate”, originated from a dispute between Rybolovlev and Swiss art dealer Yves Bouvier over allegations of art fraud amounting to approximately one billion euros. The case expanded over the years, involving multiple jurisdictions and leading to various legal challenges. The recent ruling by Monaco’s Court of Appeal signifies a pivotal moment, effectively bringing an end to the prolonged legal battles faced by Rybolovlev and his legal counsel.

Update 28/02: Monaco responds 

In a press statement released 28th February, the Monaco Prosecutor’s Office said,” The Attorney General acknowledges the decision of the Council Chamber of the Monaco Court of Appeal to annul all the substantive documents of the proceedings followed on the counts of active and passive influence peddling, passive bribery by a national public official, active corruption of national public officials, illegal taking of interests, violation of professional secrecy, and complicity and concealment, against Régis Asso, Tetiana Bersheda, Jean-Pierre Dreno, Frédéric Fusari, Christoph Haget, Paul Masseron, Antoine Narmino, Christine Giudici épouse Narmino, Philippe Narmino and Dmitriy Rybolovlev.

“The decision of the Court of Appeal, which considered that the authority of res judicata could not be invoked, is consistent in substance with what had been requested by the prosecution, which will not file an appeal for review.”

Monaco Life is produced by real multi-media journalists writing original content. See more in our free newsletter, follow our Podcasts on Spotify, and check us out on Threads,  Facebook,  Instagram,  LinkedIn and Tik Tok. 

 

Metropole Shopping hosts luxury outing for Monaco’s furry friends

by: Kyriaki Topalidou
27/02/2025

Puppuccinos, designer collars, pooch massages… Monaco’s four-legged VIPs were treated to a day of relaxation this week as the Metropole Shopping Monte-Carlo hosted Metro Paw, an exclusive canine experience. The unique event offered luxury shopping, gourmet treats, and even spa services for the Principality’s pampered pooches.

Valérie Gallet, general director of the Métropole Shopping and organiser of Metro Paw, created the magical outing specifically for Monaco’s beloved pets. The multi-level experience began on the upper floor, where pups could socialise and enjoy playtime in a specially installed ball pit. With tails wagging and eyes bright, the puppies bounded around until happily exhausted.

Meanwhile, their human companions browsed high-quality pet attire while enjoying refreshments themselves. A photo booth offered the perfect opportunity for pets and owners to capture memories of their special day out.

The puppaccino’s were definitely a hit at Metro Paw. Photo credit: Kyriaki Topalidou, Monaco Life

Following playtime, paw prints painted on the floor guided the canine guest’s downstairs, where spa therapists waited to deliver relaxing massages designed to release the everyday stresses of a dog’s life in Monaco. While their furry friends were being pampered, owners filled shopping bags with gourmet meals and received expert advice on pet health and training. They were also given the opportunity to donate to pet associations and even consider a new addition to their pet family.

To conclude their day of luxury, each pup received a complimentary puppuccino, with some departing proudly wearing new designer collars to show-off on their next stroll through the city.

Designer outfits were also very popular during the exclusive pooch event. Photo credit: Kyriaki Topalidou, Monaco Life

The event, held at the Metropole Shopping Monte-Carlo from 26th to 27th February, 3pm to 6pm, is free to participate in and brings together massage therapists, osteopaths, designers and Cakes for Pets to showcase their services and connect with Monaco’s pet-loving community.

The event also supported worthy causes, with Rokethon and the SPA de Monaco accepting donations and showcasing adoptable pets, highlighting that some puppies are still waiting for their forever homes – and potentially, a puppaccino. 

Monaco Life was there! See more in our video below…

Monaco Life is produced by real multi-media journalists writing original content. See more in our free newsletter, follow our Podcasts on Spotify, and check us out on Threads,  Facebook,  Instagram,  LinkedIn and Tik Tok. 

See also: 

In pictures: Princess Charlene and her beloved Chihuahua join Monaco march against pet abandonment

Main photo credit: Kyriaki Topalidou, Monaco Life

 

Local authorities urge residents to install Asian hornet traps before spring to curb spread

by: Stephanie Horsman
27/02/2025

With the arrival of warmer temperatures, residents on the Côte d’Azur—and across much of France—are being encouraged to install traps to capture invasive Asian hornet queens before they can establish new colonies. Here’s how to identify the species, which is decimating local bee populations throughout the country.

Asian hornets (Vespa velutina) were first detected in France in 2005, having likely arrived from China the previous year in a shipment of pottery via the port of Bordeaux. Since then, their expansion has been relentless, with the species spreading rapidly along river systems and other watercourses. They are now found in most of France, as well as in Italy, Germany, the Netherlands, Belgium, Spain, Portugal and, more recently, the United Kingdom.

Unlike worker hornets, the queens survive the winter, emerging from hibernation in late February when temperatures are consistently 12°C to 13°C or higher. At this stage, they begin forming new colonies, initially building small, fragile nests that are easier to neutralise, before they develop into the larger, more resilient nests seen in late summer. This makes early trapping and destruction particularly crucial.

A non-native species, the Asian hornet poses a serious threat to local biodiversity, particularly to native bee populations. The hornet’s predatory behaviour has raised concerns among environmentalists and beekeepers alike, making effective control measures essential.

Commonly used trapping methods can create ecological problems, as they are not suited to targeting this species, so it is recommended that traps designed specifically for the Asian hornet be used to avoid harming other pollinators.

Special traps

Many local councils are offering free or subsidised traps in a bid to combat the spread of Asian hornets.

After scientists working for the Région Sud reported that 20% to 30% of local beehives have been decimated by the Asian hornet, PACA authorities voted to increase the budget allocated to biodiversity by €120,000 to support projects combating invasive exotic species, prioritising the Asian hornet.

The traps recommended for Asian hornets are often painted red to attract the hornets and come with instructions on using a specific bait mixture. The recommended enticement—a combination of grenadine syrup, beer and white wine—is designed to selectively attract hornets while repelling bees. The sugar and fruity scent of grenadine lures the hornets, the beer’s fermenting yeast mimics the aroma of ripening fruit and the white wine acts as a deterrent to bees. The bait must be replaced weekly between February and July, with the traps positioned in flowerbeds or among blossoming trees in sunny, sheltered locations.

What do they look like?

Asian hornets are slightly smaller than their European counterparts, with queens reaching up to 30mm in length and workers up to 25mm. They are easily identifiable by their dark brown or black thorax, orange-yellow faces and distinct yellow banding on their abdomens. Their legs are brown with characteristic yellow tips. They are as ferocious as native hornets in terms of temperament and, while not specifically dangerous to humans or animals—unless the person or animal is allergic—the sting can be very painful indeed.

By targeting them now, residents can help prevent their spread and reduce their impact on local ecosystems.

Read related:

Pine processionary caterpillars: how to identify them and the dangers to be aware of

Monaco Life is produced by real multi-media journalists writing original content. See more in our free newsletter, follow our Podcasts on Spotify, and check us out on Threads,  Facebook,  Instagram,  LinkedIn and Tik Tok.  

 

Photo credit: Yamile Garcia, Pexels 

Rare planetary alignment to light up the skies of the Côte d’Azur on 28th February

by: Stephanie Horsman
27/02/2025
seven planet alignment

Astronomy enthusiasts and amateur stargazers on the Côte d’Azur are in for a treat this Friday as seven planets from our solar system are set to appear in a rare alignment at dusk. This extraordinary phenomenon offers a remarkable opportunity to observe multiple celestial bodies simultaneously, with some even visible to the naked eye.

Following the six-planet alignment on 25th January, the upcoming celestial display on 28th February will feature an additional planet: Mercury.

From 6.17pm onwards, sky watchers in the region should be able to view five of the planets without the need for specialised equipment. In all, Mercury, Venus, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus and Neptune are set to align, although the latter two will be out of reach for those without a telescope due to their considerable distance from Earth. Given that Mercury and Saturn will be positioned closest to the setting sun, they may also be difficult to spot without assistance.

Despite the term “alignment” that experts are using to describe the event, the planets will not actually form a perfectly straight line. Planetary alignment refers to the visual phenomenon where multiple planets appear in the same section of the sky from Earth’s perspective. The closer the planets are within this sector, the more striking the appearance is to observers.

For those hoping to witness this event and enhance their chances of seeing multiple planets, sky-mapping applications like Sky Tonight or Stellarium can help identify the celestial bodies amidst the stars. A key tip is to remember that planets do not twinkle, unlike stars.

For optimal viewing, start by looking towards the sunset. Mercury and Saturn should appear just below Venus, the first to become visible, as faint points of light. Turning slightly left and gazing higher, a bright light will mark the presence of Jupiter. Further to the southeast, a reddish-orange dot will reveal the location of Mars.

To fully appreciate this event, selecting a location with minimal light pollution is essential. Avoiding urban areas will provide a clearer and more immersive experience. Observers should also refrain from attempting to spot the planets before sunset, as direct exposure to intense sunlight can be harmful to the eyes.

For those unable to watch on the exact date, there’s no need to worry. Keen observers will still have a chance to catch glimpses of the alignment in the days leading up to and following 28th February. With a new moon occurring on the same evening, conditions are expected to be ideal for stargazing—making this a perfect opportunity to end the month with a spectacular view of the cosmos.

Read related:

Monaco launches art contest to design lunar vehicle of the future

Monaco Life is produced by real multi-media journalists writing original content. See more in our free newsletter, follow our Podcasts on Spotify, and check us out on Threads,  Facebook,  Instagram,  LinkedIn and Tik Tok.  

Photo credit: Jeremy Thomas, Unsplash

FIA confirms new mandatory double pit stop rule to spice up Monaco Grand Prix

by: Stephanie Horsman
27/02/2025

The Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA) has officially introduced a major rule change for the Formula 1 TAG Heuer Grand Prix de Monaco, making double pit stops mandatory for all teams. This decision, long discussed within the sport, marks a significant shift in race strategy and comes in direct response to widespread criticism that the Monaco Grand Prix, while iconic, often lacks excitement when it comes to overtaking opportunities and on-track action.

To make for a more exhilarating and challenging race, Formula 1 drivers will now have to make at least two pit stops at the Monaco Grand Prix according to a new ruling handed down this week by the FIA and formally ratified by the World Motor Sport Council on 26th February.

The newly enforced regulation aims to inject more spice into the race by requiring teams to make at least two pit stops, regardless of weather conditions. The change was initially proposed by the F1 Commission, a body comprised of representatives from teams, the FIA and Formula One Management, before receiving final approval in Geneva.

“This decision, which has been in the works for some time, applies exclusively to the Monaco Grand Prix,” confirmed a representative for the Automobile Club de Monaco. “It aligns with the shared vision of Formula 1, the FIA and the ACM to enhance the spectacle for drivers, spectators and global television audiences alike. We will see the impact of this rule at the 82nd Formula 1 TAG Heuer Grand Prix de Monaco in May 2025.”

The FIA announced the new rule in a press release, stating, “Following recent discussions in the F1 Commission, a specific requirement for the Monaco Grand Prix has been approved mandating the use of at least three sets of tyres in the race, with a minimum of two different tyre compounds to be used if it’s a dry race.”

Monegasque driver Charles Leclerc, who clinched victory at his home race in 2024, has publicly welcomed the idea, saying it could bring much-needed strategy into play.

“I think it will definitely help the Sunday, especially with strategy. The excitement on Sunday is maybe a bit less than what you will hope. The Saturday is incredible but the Sunday maybe needs a little bit of spice and hopefully this will give it,” he told Sky Sports.

See more: F1: Charles Leclerc brings home the win at the Monaco Grand Prix

Though he is for the rule, he noted there should be room for change if it doesn’t go to plan.

“We’ve got to be open-minded,” he added. “If it’s the direction that we are going to take, then we need to see if that actually makes a difference or not and be open to change back if that’s not the right solution.”

The effectiveness of this change remains to be seen, but all eyes will be on the streets of the Principality from 22nd to 25th May to see if its impact on one of the most glamourous and prestigious events in motorsport is here to stay, or just a passing fancy.

Read related:

All the major motorsport events in Monaco in 2025 and beyond

Monaco Life is produced by real multi-media journalists writing original content. See more in our free newsletter, follow our Podcasts on Spotify, and check us out on Threads,  Facebook,  Instagram,  LinkedIn and Tik Tok.  

Photo source: Scuderia Ferrari Media Centre

From panel talks to performances: what to expect at PowHer Women’s Day in Monaco

by: Niki Borisova
27/02/2025

Monaco will celebrate Women’s Day with a full-day programme at Espace Léo Ferré, featuring discussions, exhibitions, and performances—all free to attend.

Monaco Life attended the PowHer Women’s Day press conference, held on 27th February at Espace Léo Ferré, where the event will take place on 8th March from 10am to 8pm. The conference, organised by the Comité pour la Promotion et la Protection des Droits des Femmes in collaboration with the Mairie de Monaco, outlined this year’s theme: ‘Women in Arts and Media’ and the importance of representation.

Chloé Boscagali Leclercq, representative of the Mairie de Monaco, joined Celine Cottalorda, Monaco’s Interministerial Delegate for Women’s Rights, alongside graffiti artist Mr. Oneteas, artist Toby Wright, who is also an ambassador for the SheCanHeCan association, and others.

Breaking stereotypes and ensuring visibility

Cottalorda stressed the need to challenge outdated portrayals of women in the media, noting that harmful perceptions still persist. “Even today, there are young people who believe a woman’s role is just to stay at home, cook, and clean. These ideas need to be dismantled,” she said. She also spotlighted progress, recalling that not long ago, women were dependent on men and unable to vote. “Now, we can vote, we can work, but it’s important to keep a reminder of where we’ve come from.”

Her research into historic Monegasque texts revealed that women were once legally classified alongside children and people with disabilities, illustrating how much has changed—and how important it is to continue pushing for equality.

Wright echoed this sentiment, reinforcing the role of education in challenging ingrained biases. “Ignorance affects us all, from education to government structures. That’s why we need to work harder on equality and women’s empowerment,” he said.

A programme for all ages

The PowHer Women’s Day event will feature round tables, discussions, and activities designed to engage all generations. The morning will begin with a panel on female representation in arts and media, featuring actress and director Audrey Dana, e-sports champion Kayane, stylist Harmony Larcher, and Toby Wright.

An eloquence competition and a photography contest themed around ‘feminine strength’ will culminate in an awards ceremony. Exhibitions will explore women’s role in heritage preservation and the achievements of remarkable Monegasque women.

For younger audiences, the event will offer a gaming zone (from age seven), an escape game (from age 11), and cosplay activities. A gospel concert featuring an all-female group will take place in the evening, followed by a stand-up comedy show.

Cottalorda underlined the importance of including men in the conversation. “It’s crucial that men are also present because they are a big part of this,” she said. This is reflected in the organisation of the event, which includes men as active participants and speakers.

Monaco-based artist Mr. Oneteas said he was proud to support the initiative. “I’m honoured to take part in this event and to support women in spreading these messages,” he said.

PowHer Women’s Day will conclude with a special women’s basketball match at 8:30pm, reinforcing the event’s message of empowerment and equality in all areas of life. The event is free to attend.

To view the full programme, click here.

 

Monaco Life is produced by real multi-media journalists writing original content. See more in our free newsletter, follow our Podcasts on Spotify, and check us out on Threads,  Facebook,  Instagram,  LinkedIn and Tik Tok.  

Photo by Monaco Life.