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Month: May 2025

Oliver Rowland tastes victory in first part of Monaco e-Prix double-header

by: Luke Entwistle
03/05/2025
Rowland celebrating his victory by spraying champagne on the podium after the conclusion of the Monaco e-Prix

Oliver Rowland continued his dominant form in the first of two back-to-back Monaco e-Prixs, which for the first time, included the new Pit Boost rule, shaking up an exciting race on the streets of Monte-Carlo.

Earlier in the day, Taylor Barnard, who became the youngest ever Formula E driver when he replaced an injured Sam Bird at last season’s Monaco e-Prix, became the youngest driver to put his car on pole after Rowland put his car in the wall in the qualifying final.

The Championship leader would atone for his error later in the day but his victory was anything but simple. The introduction of the ‘Pit Boost’ rule, already applied during the Miami e-Prix, means that drivers must pit in order to have their battery charged. As it does in the Formula 1 race, strategy therefore played its part.

Rowland going around the Fairmont Hairpin – Photo credit Luke Entwistle / Monaco Life

Andretti’s Nico Mueller was the major benefactor on this occasion. After a largely clean start, Rowland retained his lead in the opening laps, however, Mueller, who qualified 14th before suffering a puncture early in the race, stopped under a Full Course Yellow on lap 14, leapfrogging the competition and putting him in the lead of the race.

However, the Swiss driver was not able to retain his advantage. Lacking pace, he was eaten up by the grid, ultimately finishing fifth. Barnard was also sent tumbling down the order. The young Brit had already been overtaken by Rowland prior to the pit boosts, with the latter applying the pressure. Barnard twice cut a chicane to retain his lead, much to the frustration of Rowland, who called for clarity of the rules post-race.

Barnard then sustained damage on lap 24, going into the barrier at the Fairmont hairpin on lap 24. Whilst he kept his McLaren running, he failed to bring home any points for his team.

Rowland in front of the Monaco skyline in the Monaco e-Prix. Photo credit: Luke Entwistle / Monaco Life

Rowland still had a fight on his hands. To his confusion, he was only informed by his team to take Attack Mode – which provides a temporary speed advantage but at the expense of going wide in Casino Square – late-on, meaning that he had to make his way up from fifth in the final laps.

Maserati MSG struggle at home e-Prix

He got the winning move done coming out of the tunnel on lap 26 of 30 with former Formula 1 driver Nyck de Vries finishing second, ahead of Jake Dennis. The Brit has now won three out of the first six races this season, becoming the first driver to do so since Sébastien Buemi in the 2016/17 season. He now has 94 points, 34 more than second-placed Pascal Wehrlein.

At their home e-Prix, Maserati MSG Racing had a difficult day, taking just two points thanks to Stoffel Vandoorne’s ninth-place finish.

Maserati MSG’s Stoffel Vandoorne at the Monaco e-Prix. Photo credit: Luke Entwistle / Monaco Life

However, Maserati MSG Racing, like the rest of the grid, will get a second bite of the apple. This year’s Monaco e-Prix is a double-header, meaning that there will be a second race on Sunday. The celebrations, therefore, could not be too extravagant; the podium champagne was more sprayed than consumed.

“If there wasn’t another race, I’d feel quite a lot different and I would have other plans,” joked Rowland. “Your mind immediately switches to tomorrow. It changes the feeling of winning.”

Dennis added, “I think [the celebrations] would be better if there wasn’t a race tomorrow. Ultimately, we have to do the job tomorrow.” A slightly more muted podium, therefore, however, it is a big win for Rowland, who previously finished on the podium in Monaco in 2019. 

Rowland celebrates his Monaco e-Prix win. Photo credit: Luke Entwistle / Monaco Life

The win on the streets of Monte-Carlo may have lacked its usual effervescent taste but it is one that puts Rowland firmly in the driving seat in the race for the Formula E title.

 

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

Photo credit: Luke Entwistle, Monaco Life

Monaco’s 2024 employment report reveals record job growth, rising telework and a shifting workforce

by: Cassandra Tanti
03/05/2025

Monaco’s job market surged in 2024, adding thousands of new roles and reinforcing the Principality’s position as a magnet for private sector growth. The year brought a sharp rise in remote work, a spike in temporary contracts, and a workforce that’s more global—and older—than ever.

The Principality’s latest Observatoire de l’Emploi, released in April, provides a detailed look at the evolving landscape of employment in Monaco. With 78,364 jobs recorded at the end of 2024—up nearly 4,000 from the previous year—the market grew by 4.8%, its strongest pace in a decade. More than 92% of these roles are in the private sector, underlining Monaco’s reputation as a hub for agile, service-driven businesses.

Strong private sector growth led by hospitality and technical services

Monaco crossed a significant threshold in 2024: over 60,000 people are now employed in the private sector. The strongest gains were seen in hospitality and temporary work, with the accommodation and restaurant sector rising 7.6% and technical/admin services increasing by 7.5%. Temporary employment saw a 13.5% jump, almost double the growth of the overall private sector. In fact, interim workers now make up nearly 13% of all private sector employees—reflecting the Principality’s highly seasonal and service-oriented economy.

Telework becomes the norm for thousands

A standout shift in 2024 was the continued rise in telework. By year-end, nearly 6,800 employees were working remotely—up 19% from 2023. For the first time, more women than men were teleworking. The majority of remote workers live in France, but a growing number now reside in Italy, thanks to an expanded agreement that took effect in mid-2024. This evolution offers increased flexibility for Monaco-based companies while supporting cross-border talent retention.

Diversity rises, but gender imbalance remains

Monaco’s private sector is now home to workers from 145 nationalities, reflecting the Principality’s international appeal. French nationals remain the majority, followed by Italians and Portuguese, but the most significant growth came from Romanian workers, whose numbers have multiplied fivefold since 2015. Despite this growing diversity, gender parity is moving in the opposite direction. In 2024, women made up just 37.9% of private sector employees—down from 40.7% a decade ago. The decline is largely due to the male-dominated nature of temporary work and sectors like construction and logistics.

Ageing workforce and commuter shift

The average private sector employee in Monaco is now 42.4 years old—up by more than a year in the past decade. Workers over 55 represent nearly one in five employees. At the same time, the population commuting to Monaco continues to grow. Nice alone accounts for more than 16,000 workers, with the largest increases coming from further afield in the Alpes-Maritimes and Italy. Meanwhile, the share of Monaco-based employees has declined steadily, now representing just over 10%.

Entrepreneurship on the rise, but Monégasques remain a minority

Monaco closed 2024 with more than 6,000 self-employed individuals—a 51% increase over the past decade. The number of private employers has remained steady, though larger entities (with 200+ employees) are slowly increasing. Still, Monégasque nationals remain underrepresented: only about 1,000 work in the private sector, a number that has remained static for 10 years and now represents less than 2% of the total workforce.

As Monaco continues to modernise its economic model, the 2024 employment trends offer valuable insights for employers, investors, and entrepreneurs alike. With flexible work models growing, international talent deepening, and sectoral dynamics shifting, the Principality’s labour market is evolving—and poised for even more transformation ahead.

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

Photo credit: Cassandra Tanti, Monaco Life

Report shows Prince Albert II Foundation led a powerful year of action for the planet in 2024

by: Cassandra Tanti
02/05/2025

In a year marked by environmental setbacks worldwide, the Prince Albert II of Monaco Foundation stood firm in its mission to protect the planet, launching bold new initiatives, uniting global stakeholders, and expanding its influence across oceans, finance, education and innovation.

Released at the end of April, the Prince Albert II of Monaco Foundation’s 2024 Annual Report offers a comprehensive look at an ambitious year of environmental leadership. With over €9.8 million invested in field projects across more than 90 countries, the Foundation reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding nature through innovation, cooperation and bold policy engagement.

See also: NatureMetrics becomes first private company to join €100 million ReOcean Fund portfolio

Blue economy gets a major boost

Among the year’s flagship developments was the continued rollout of the ReOcean Fund, a €100 million private equity vehicle designed to support scalable, ocean-positive solutions. Launched in partnership with Monaco Asset Management, the fund backs initiatives in marine ecosystem restoration, plastic pollution reduction, green shipping and blue food.

Further anchoring Monaco’s leadership in ocean finance, the Foundation unveiled the Blue Economy Index—a tool to guide environmentally responsible investment choices in key sectors like waste management, sustainable fisheries and water treatment.

Monaco Ocean Week puts action centre stage

The Foundation’s convening power was clearly visible during Monaco Ocean Week 2024, which featured over 50 events. From ocean governance and sustainable yachting to scientific panels and cultural programming, the event solidified the Principality’s global role as a driver of ocean conservation.

See also: Monaco to play key role in preparations for UN Ocean Conference in Nice

The 15th Monaco Blue Initiative addressed emerging priorities ahead of the 2025 UN Ocean Conference in Nice. Other key events included the Ocean Innovators Platform and the announcement of the Beyond Plastic Med 2024 winners.

Educating future generations

2024 also saw significant progress in youth engagement and public awareness. The Re.Generation Future Leaders Program continued to train emerging voices in environmental leadership, while initiatives like Students on Ice, the urban school garden scheme, and Monaco’s participation in the international writing competition brought environmental education to classrooms and communities. The Foundation also expanded its cultural impact with the Green Shift Festival, the Environmental Photography Award and panel discussions on sustainable fashion and ecological storytelling.

High-level pledges and global influence

The Foundation’s diplomatic and philanthropic reach expanded further in 2024. Prince Albert II of Monaco personally announced a $60.8 million multi-donor pledge for Mediterranean marine conservation at the Our Ocean Conference in Athens. Monaco also became the first European and Mediterranean country to ratify the UN High Seas Treaty, reinforcing its position at the forefront of global ocean protection.

Looking ahead, the Foundation is co-organising the Blue Economy and Finance Forum as part of the UN Ocean Conference in June 2025.

A determined path forward

As global environmental challenges mount, the Prince Albert II of Monaco Foundation has made clear that retreat is not an option. Its 2024 annual report reflects a year of unwavering resolve, smart investment and inclusive engagement—laying strong foundations for continued leadership in 2025 and beyond.

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

Main photo: Prince Albert II at the Young Activists Summit. Photo source: Prince Albert II of Monaco Foundation

From ZIA to Guerlain: Hôtel Metropole reopens with summer highlights

by: Cassandra Tanti
02/05/2025

One of Monaco’s most beloved institutions is stirring back to life. Hôtel Métropole Monte-Carlo has reopened its doors with renewed spirit and a season of exciting new experiences ahead. At the heart of this revival is ZIA, the chic poolside haven now welcoming the wider public for the first time, offering locals and visitors a fresh taste of la dolce vita in one of the Principality’s most iconic settings. With redesigned guest rooms and a tranquil new Guerlain spa set to be unveiled later this summer, the return of this landmark hotel promises a blend of elegance, flavour and discovery.

Set beneath the shimmering Odyssey mural by Karl Lagerfeld, ZIA reopens from 2nd May to 1st October 2025 with a vibrant new concept. Breakfast and lunch are now served not only to hotel guests but also to the public, transforming the terrace into a true Monegasque rendezvous. Mornings begin with pillowy pandoro French toast and delicate homemade pastries, while midday brings the likes of Sicilian branzino and truffle-studded tigelle.

From 28th May, the atmosphere will evolve into an open-air evening affair, with chef-led masterclasses, elegant dinners, and a lively aperitivo culture under the stars.

Odyssey by night, at the Hôtel Metropole

The reopening of ZIA is just one part of Hôtel Métropole’s much-anticipated transformation. Following years of carefully orchestrated updates, the hotel is returning with renewed grandeur. While the Belle Époque lobby remains gloriously intact, August will unveil 45 reimagined rooms across the second and third floors.

These have been designed by Jacques Garcia, whose distinctive style blends rich textures, natural light and timeless elegance—marking the most extensive refurbishment since the hotel’s 2004 relaunch.

A preview look of the new junior suite deluxe, which will be unviled in August

Throughout its renewal, Hôtel Métropole has retained its soul—and its stars. Les Ambassadeurs by Christophe Cussac, which made its dazzling debut in 2024, has remarkably upheld its two Michelin stars even amid the hotel’s renovation works. Now open to the public, the restaurant invites discerning diners into a world where Mediterranean flavours are elevated to art.

Under the masterful direction of Cussac, with executive chef Sonny Dufour in the kitchen and Marco Tognon orchestrating the dining room, every dish is a study in balance, technique and seasonal precision. From the delicate amuse-bouche to the final flourish of its signature dessert trolley, Les Ambassadeurs redefines excellence, reaffirming its place at the very pinnacle of Monaco’s fine dining scene.

The elegant dining room of Les Ambassadeurs by Christophe Cussac. Photo credit: Studio Phenix

Alongside Les Ambassadeurs, the Lobby Bar and Yoshi have also reopened, once again welcoming the public to enjoy their distinctive atmospheres and culinary offerings.

These signature venues, each with its own character and loyal following, reinforce Hôtel Métropole’s position as a dynamic destination for both locals and international guests seeking refined hospitality at the heart of Monte-Carlo.

The new Spa Metropole by Guerlain will be unveiled in July

Looking ahead, the transformation continues. In July, the hotel will introduce the Spa Metropole by Guerlain. Designed by Samy Itani, the wellness space will fuse modern luxury with calm minimalism, offering signature Guerlain treatments, a Bastien Gonzalez mani-pedi studio, and full hammam, sauna and fitness facilities. It promises to be a serene, state-of-the-art escape within the heart of Monaco.

For a hotel that has spent the last few years reinventing itself behind the scenes, this season marks not just a reopening, but a true renaissance. Hôtel Métropole Monte-Carlo is back—open, elevated and more inviting than ever.

See also: 

Michelin Guide 2024: Les Ambassadeurs by Christophe Cussac earns two stars in its first year

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

All photos sourced from Hôtel Metropole

Genuinely super: meet the Monaco club for supercar owners

by: Richard McCreery
02/05/2025

If you want to know what it feels like to chase the tail of a Ferrari 812 Competizione down a winding mountain road whilst a Lamborghini Aventador fills your rearview mirror, I can confirm that it is as thrilling as you might hope. Your heart beats wildly, the butterflies in your stomach feel like they are doing the tango, and your senses have never been more alive.

Which they need to be, when you are sandwiched between several million euros’ worth of automotive fine art. As part of a procession of supercars exploring some of the best driving roads our region has to offer, with an orchestra of V8, V10, and V12 engines providing a thunderous soundtrack, you can practically taste the adrenaline.

Welcome to the Monaco chapter of Fast Lane Drive, the club for supercar owners who love to share their passion for exotic and luxury cars with other like-minded individuals. François Willm and Marine Grapin are responsible for opening this exclusive, members-only club in 2023. It has already grown to 55 members and is just one of more than 20 Fast Lane Drive communities around the world. Monaco Life was invited to their latest event, which set off from the elegant Bastide Saint-Antoine hotel in Grasse, following a hearty breakfast and a briefing from the organisers.

From Alpine turns to photo ops

The lineup of cars included some beautiful examples of automotive magic from Porsche, McLaren, Ferrari, Lamborghini and Audi, as well as France’s second-greatest sports car (behind Bugatti), the Alpine A110, which managed to hold its own among this daunting company. The morning drive took in a variety of roads around the Route Napoléon, with stops for coffee and a chance for the drivers and their guests to take a closer look at each other’s weapon of choice. At one point, an unexpectedly closed road meant that we all had to perform a U-turn on a narrow country lane — not something you want to attempt in a supercar with more than 800 horsepower under your right foot — but everyone kept their cool and avoided the ditch. No pressure!

Each time our procession came to a small village, it was like the circus arriving in town. Children and grown men alike stopped and stared, whipping out their phones to capture the moment when some of the world’s most exciting cars trundled through the narrow streets. Drivers always observed the speed limits, although they were likely silently cursing the many speed humps — the natural enemy of a road-hugging supercar.

Outside the urban areas and back on the open road, as each car took its turn to accelerate up to the permissible speed limit, it brought to mind that iconic Star Wars moment when the spaceships jump to lightspeed. Almost 30% of Fast Lane Drive members in Monaco are, or have been, professional drivers, and they certainly know how to get the most out of a great sports car. The day’s events were carefully documented, with a professional photographer and a fearless cameraman onboard the support cars to capture every moment, and the overall organisation was impeccable, as you would expect at this level.

Lunch, laughs and lifestyle

The day ended with a late lunch at the iconic Mas Candille in Mougins — a chance to relax and get to know the other participants. This community is as much about socialising as it is about driving, and philanthropy also plays a part, with charity events providing opportunities to give back.

Philanthropy and networking appeal to those who can afford the world’s most exclusive cars, but the atmosphere here is far from elitist; it is friendly and fun. In everyday life, the club’s members are business people and entrepreneurs, but about once a month they come together to share a love of driving and to discuss the finer points of their pride and joy with other enthusiasts. In terms of pure excitement, it beats a round of golf. As well as planning regular drives through the countryside, the club also organises track experiences and exclusive events tailored for luxury and sporting icons, partnering with some of the world’s top brands.

However, this club is just as much about the people as it is about the cars. On the day Monaco Life was invited, it was refreshing to see fathers bringing their young sons to share the excitement, and a good mix of men and women participating. Traditional car clubs are often dominated by men, but Fast Lane Drive boasts a high proportion of female members, who usually spend just as much time behind the wheel as their partners. There is a wide range of ages, and the mix of spoken French and English adds to the cosmopolitan atmosphere. Membership in one chapter grants access to all locations, including upcoming communities in Tokyo and Paris.

Global access, local energy

Fast Lane Drive was started in the USA, where it has grown quickly, but it feels particularly well suited to Monaco and this region, which combines an abundance of supercar owners, spectacular driving roads, stunning scenery, and an array of refined dining locations perfect for starting or ending a memorable day.

When you buy a supercar, you are buying into an exclusive lifestyle — and that is what this club is all about: maximising the pleasure of ownership, not just through driving, but through sharing the experience with others. Although, for me at least, the driving is the part I will be replaying in my mind long after the day has ended. That kind of experience is priceless, regardless of how wealthy you are.

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

All photos courtesy Fast Lane Drive 

‘Les Anges Gardiens de Monaco’ documentary pays tribute to track marshals at Grimaldi Forum premiere

by: Cassandra Tanti
02/05/2025

The Grimaldi Forum has hosted the highly anticipated premiere of ‘Les Anges Gardiens de Monaco’, with Prince Albert II in attendance. The documentary shines a light on the often-unsung heroes of motorsport: the Principality’s dedicated track marshals.

Produced by Yann-Antony Noghès and directed by Franck Florino, this powerful and emotionally resonant film is narrated by Monegasque Formula One star Charles Leclerc. Through gripping footage and heartfelt interviews, the documentary explores the passion, precision, and courage of the volunteers who play a crucial role in ensuring the safety and success of Monaco’s world-famous motorsport events.

These men and women, the marshals of the Automobile Club de Monaco, work tirelessly behind the scenes at the Grand Prix and other key races, ready to respond to incidents with speed and professionalism. Their commitment and discipline are portrayed with humanity and authenticity in the documentary, offering viewers an intimate look into the lives of those who make the races possible.

The film serves not only as a tribute but also as a reminder of the human spirit that fuels every corner of the circuit. It captures moments of tension and teamwork, revealing the unscripted drama behind the glamour of the racing world.

‘Les Anges Gardiens de Monaco’ was also broadcast on Monaco Info, offering wider audiences a chance to experience the emotional depth and real-life heroism of Monaco’s trackside guardians.

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

Photo credit: Direction de la Communication / Manuel Vitali