The Principality of Monaco has introduced a new, simplified helpline number for victims of violence. As of this month, calls can now be made to 39 19, a free and easy-to-remember number that replaces the former 0800 91 90 10.
The introduction of the 39 19 helpline brings Monaco in line with France’s national victim support system. Calls made from the Principality are redirected to the Association d’Aide aux Victimes d’Infractions Pénales (AVIP), which is authorised to provide victims with essential information and tailored guidance across a broad spectrum of violence-related issues.
These include domestic violence, sexual assault, workplace harassment and other forms of abuse. The service operates with complete discretion and is accessible to anyone seeking confidential advice or information.
Reinforcing the state’s commitment
The updated service is part of a wider initiative led by Monaco’s Committee for the Promotion and Protection of Women’s Rights, which aims to strengthen access to support mechanisms for victims.
In cases of immediate danger, emergency numbers remain unchanged: residents should contact 17 or 112.
The Embassy of Monaco in France marked a major milestone on Thursday 10th July, as it hosted a reception in Paris celebrating the 20th anniversary of the accession of Prince Albert II. The evening, led by Monaco’s Ambassador to France and Andorra, Valérie Bruell‑Melchior, brought together close to 350 high-level guests from the world of diplomacy, international institutions and civil society.
Held in the heart of Paris, the event welcomed representatives of the French Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs, the Apostolic Nuncio, ambassadors accredited to Monaco and to UNESCO, as well as Monégasque elected officials. Among them was Monaco’s Permanent Representative to UNESCO, Anne‑Marie Boisbouvier, who joined the Ambassador for the occasion. The reception highlighted the strength of Franco‑Monégasque relations, further reinforced by the recent State Visit of the French President to the Principality on 7th and 8th June.
Principles and priorities in diplomacy
In her address to the assembled guests, Ambassador Bruell-Melchior spoke about the Principality’s unwavering commitment to the rule of law, the protection of human dignity, and the pursuit of peaceful solutions to global challenges. She also highlighted Monaco’s continued engagement with environmental and ocean sustainability initiatives, referencing the recent Blue Economy and Finance Forum as a key example of the Principality’s international leadership in this field.
Celebrating a modern reign
The anniversary was also a moment to reflect on two decades of leadership under Prince Albert II, whose reign has been characterised by stability, international engagement and a steadfast dedication to environmental diplomacy. The reception paid tribute to his enduring vision for Monaco’s role on the global stage, one that remains rooted in responsible governance and future-facing priorities.
Monaco’s Port Herculis witnessed unprecedented drama on Friday as a high-speed collision between two RaceBirds forced officials to abandon qualifying for the first time in E1 World Championship history.
The crash involved championship leaders Team Rafa and Team Brazil by Claure Group, leaving pilot Tom Chiappe’s craft severely damaged and taking on water. Tennis legend Rafael Nadal watched in horror from the sidelines as his team’s title hopes took a potentially decisive blow.
“It was scary,” Rafael Nadal revealed after witnessing the collision. “Seeing it in real-time, I was worried for Tom. From the sidelines it looked dangerous. The main thing is he’s okay, he’s healthy. Everything else doesn’t matter when you go through something like this.”
Chiappe managed to leap clear of his RaceBird to waiting safety crews as it began taking on water, whilst co-pilot Cris Lazarraga could only watch in agony from the paddock.
The crash represents a crushing setback for Team Rafa, who entered the weekend as championship leaders. With qualifying points allocated based on completed time trials, they now face Saturday’s race from eighth position on the grid—a mountain to climb comparing to the position of one of their closest rivals, the Aoki Racing Team, who will start from fourth.
Team Brady managed to secure pole position ahead of Team Blue Rising in second and Team Drogba in third. Aoki Racing Team secured fourth place, with Westbrook Racing fifth and Team AIUIa by LeBron James sixth. Team Brazil by Claure Group, despite their involvement in the collision, finished seventh, one place ahead of the damaged Team Rafa boat in eighth. Team Miami rounded out the field in ninth position.
Monaco Life’s Kyriaki Topalidou was there! See more in her video below…
In a unique back-to-back driving experience offered by BPM Exclusive in Monaco, Monaco Life took to the scenic Basse Corniche to test both the internal combustion engine (ICE) and all-electric versions of Maserati’s GranTurismo. The result was not what we expected. One car stood head and shoulders above the other – and it wasn’t the one with the roar.
A small group of fortunate clients and press gathered at La Javanaise beach restaurant in Beaulieu-sur-Mer to test Maserati’s finest. Lined up outside were two near-identical models: the GranTurismo Trofeo, with its 550bhp V6 combustion engine, and the newer, all-electric GranTurismo Folgore, which delivers a staggering 761bhp. Despite the radically different powertrains, both cars share the same sleek platform – all curves and characteristically Italian flair.
Naturally, the Trofeo was the first to tempt. That unmistakable V6 soundtrack echoing through tunnels is a visceral experience. With flappy paddles at your fingertips, it’s easy to orchestrate a mechanical symphony, even at moderate speeds. From the driver’s seat, the long bonnet and visible wheel arches evoke the spirit of a proper racing machine. Yet, turn around and you’ll spot two useable rear seats, making it more practical than most grand tourers in this class.
Photo source: BPM Exclusive
Classic style with a modern edge
Inside the Trofeo, a two-tone blue and white leather interior pays tribute to the iconic MC12. The cabin is laden with leather, accented by carbon fibre details and modern tech including a head-up display and twin touchscreens. The driving mode selector and starter button are conveniently located on the steering wheel, while the surprisingly spacious cockpit ensures taller drivers are well accommodated.
The drive itself delivers exactly what you’d hope for in a GT. The GranTurismo Trofeo masks its size with grace, remaining planted through bends and poised on straights. It doesn’t scream for attention like some rivals; rather, it asserts itself with refined strength. This is a car made for Tuscany’s sweeping roads, not mountain hairpins. Long-distance comfort meets compelling performance – the sort of vehicle you admire after you park it.
Photo credit: Richard McCreery
Electric refinement meets Italian passion
Then came the game-changer. The GranTurismo Folgore is Maserati’s first foray into all-electric GT territory. With a theoretical range of 450 kilometres and ultra-fast 800v charging, it promises substance alongside style. Though it starts in silence, the moment you glide away it becomes clear: this drivetrain suits the luxury GT form astonishingly well.
A subtle, futuristic hum replaces engine noise, enhancing the serene atmosphere. Electric power adds an elegance to low-speed manoeuvring that petrol engines can’t replicate. It doesn’t just move – it floats forward. For urban or relaxed driving, the electric experience feels effortlessly civilised.
Photo credit: Richard McCreery
Explosive power in near silence
Yet this calm demeanour belies the sheer force beneath the bonnet. With 761bhp and 1,350Nm of torque, the Folgore sprints from 0 to 100 km/h in just 2.7 seconds – making it nearly as quick as the Aston Martin Valhalla, but with the added practicality of rear seats. The three electric motors power all four wheels, with a gentle rear bias, launching the car down the road with unrelenting pace. It’s not aggressive or jarring, just irresistibly powerful.
Overtaking becomes second nature, and high-speed stability is exceptional. In truth, this car is too quick for public roads, but the thrill never fades. Each burst of acceleration is addictive. This isn’t just an alternative to petrol performance – it’s a compelling evolution of it.
Photo source: BPM Exclusive
Verdict: A surprise favourite
Against all expectations, it was the Folgore that left the deepest impression. The Trofeo, as engaging as it is, couldn’t match the all-electric version’s combination of beauty, practicality, luxury, and staggering performance. The Folgore is both Beauty and the Beast.
With starting prices just shy of €200,000, neither model is a casual purchase. But in return, Maserati offers a truly unique GT experience – one that may have you questioning everything you thought you knew about electric cars.
