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Month: July 2025

Team Brady storms to first win of 2025 E1 season at Lake Maggiore

by: Cassandra Tanti
02/07/2025

Team Brady – backed by NFL legend Tom Brady – shook off an early-season wobble with a stunning victory at the fourth round of the 2025 UIM E1 World Championship, held on the serene waters of Italy’s Lake Maggiore. In a powerhouse performance, reigning “Champions of the Water” Sam Coleman crossed the finish line in P1, securing the team’s first top-spot finish of the season.

Coleman’s triumph was built on a dominant performance by teammate Emma Kimiläinen, who claimed the early place race by an impressive margin of over nine seconds. Her seamless drive set the stage perfectly. “It’s about time! This is great. I am so proud of the team, so happy with the result. Just so happy, amazing!” Coleman beamed following the victory.

Drama unfolded throughout the event. Aoki Racing Team was disqualified for a false start, while Team AlUla, owned by LeBron James, encountered technical woes after colliding with Team Drogba. In another intense moment, Teams Drogba and Brazil made contact in a wake-impacted turn, ramping up the tension.

Rafael Nadal’s Team Rafa seized the day with a strong second-place finish, snatching the Championship lead by seven points ahead of Aoki Racing. Behind them, Blue Rising secured third place and Team Westbrook – co-owned by Will Smith – claimed fourth.

Kimiläinen’s exceptional driving earned her the coveted PIF “Pilot of the Race” award, recognising her clutch performance in the first final. Trophies were presented by a high-profile lineup including E1 CEO Rodi Basso, Lombardy Region President Attilio Fontana, UIM President Raffaele Chiulli, and Italian sports presenter Giusy Meloni.

Ahead of the Monaco leg next month, Basso reflected, “It’s been wonderful to bring the Championship to Italy… these incredible teams continue to push the E1 RaceBirds to their absolute limits in pursuit of victory.” With speeds hitting 93 kph and an engaged crowd of spectators ferrying between boats, the Lake Maggiore GP remains a highlight on the championship calendar.

Next stop on the electric racing tour is motor-sport’s jewel: Monaco. With the competition tightening, the battle for water supremacy is set to make even more waves.

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Photo credit: Spacesuit Media

International artists converge in Monaco for ‘Elevated’ exhibition

by: Kyriaki Topalidou
02/07/2025

The Fusion Art Gallery’s ‘Elevated: The Art of Prestige’ exhibition has transformed Espace 22 into a global showcase, bringing together 33 artists from across continents.

Running through to 6th July, the exhibition explores how modern creators are redefining prestige through bold innovation, with each artists offering its distinct perspective.

One of the exhibition’s highlights is Thomas Bambini’s approach to oil painting. The French artist spent 50 hours creating a Medusa that merges Caravaggio’s legendary shield painting with Bernini’s sculptural mastery—two Renaissance giants who never collaborated in life but find unity on his canvas.

The result carries unexpected emotional weight. While classical depictions of Medusa highlight a mix of fear and sadness, Bambini’s interpretation leans even more into vulnerability. “I think my Medusa is sadder because of the way I drew the eyes. It looks like he’s about to cry,” he told Monaco Life.

His second piece presents an even bolder cultural collision: a Renaissance princess bearing a traditional Japanese yakuza tattoo. “My aim was to blend the visual language of the Japanese Mafia with the image of a classical princess,” says Bambini. The work creates a deliberate visual trick—viewers first admire the elegant period dress before discovering the hidden tattoos underneath.

Thomas Bambini and his artwork, photo by Monaco Life.

Formula 1’s fallen champion

Canadian artist ML Sund created what may be the exhibition’s most touching tribute. His paintings honour Jules Bianchi, whose death nearly a decade ago has left an undeniable mark in Formula 1’s history.

“This painting honours Jules Bianchi, depicting his race in Monaco back in 2014.” The work gains particular resonance in Monaco, since “the only points he ever scored were in this race in Monaco,” ML Sund told Monaco Life.

His separate painting of the 1964 Le Mans race also captures Bianchi’s grandfather, who competed that year.

ML Sund artist and his Jules Bianchi art, photo by Monaco Life.

Stones as spiritual metaphors

Aydin Aghababazadeh, the Persian-Iranian artist, also stands out for transforming geological formations into profound meditations on personal growth.

His featured work, ‘Soul depth’, uses colour as emotional cartography.

“The deep blue is the inner self and the white is the limit of our life,” Aghababazadeh explains. “And when you reach the connection between these two, you will see how bright your life would be.”

Drawing inspiration from “geodes, stones, and natural orificies,” his art philosophy centres on bridging internal and external worlds.

Aydin Aghababazadeh and his artwork, photo by Monaco Life.

‘Elevated’ challenges traditional notions of artistic prestige by celebrating innovation over imitation. The exhibition demonstrates how artists are forging new territories while maintaining respect for their predecessors.

The six day programme continues with events designed to showcase different facets of modern artistic expression, each reinforcing the exhibition’s thesis that true prestige emerges from fearless creativity.

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Main photo of Irina Machneva Mota and Johan Grundin, organisers of ‘Elevated: The Art of Prestige’, by Monaco Life.

 

Monaco Private Label Summit 2025: International decision-makers converge in the Principality

by: Cassandra Tanti
02/07/2025

From 22nd to 23rd June, Monaco became a global meeting ground for leaders in art, culture, and business, as the 16th edition of the Monaco Private Label (MPL) Annual Summit unfolded under the High Patronage of Prince Albert II. This year’s theme, ‘Monaco, Exploring the Art of Collecting Today’, attracted nearly 200 high-level guests from over 30 nations. 

The summit showcased two defining forces shaping the Principality’s future: its growing influence in global debate and a generational renewal that is reshaping its networks. Among the guests were some 30 ‘Young Leaders’ under the age of 35, a clear signal of Monaco’s enduring appeal as a dynamic space for innovation and leadership.

Monaco’s cultural clout meets generational momentum

Created over 16 years ago, the MPL network now boasts nearly 2,000 members from 60 countries. Under the leadership of Chloé Boscagli and Monaco’s Cellule Attractivité, the MPL has evolved into a cornerstone of the Principality’s resident-attraction strategy.

“By bringing together committed personalities and recognised experts, the Monaco Private Label reinforces its position as a strategic gateway between influence and sustainable action,” said Boscagli.

Prince Albert II at the MPL gala in the Salle Empire of the Hotel de Paris. Photo source: Government Communications Department

This year’s agenda explored the intersections of art, technology, and personal legacy. Notable speakers included Simon de Pury and Magnus Resch, who spoke passionately about the emotional value of collecting, while Thierry Consigny and Björn Dahlström examined the fusion of luxury and contemporary art. Ivona Tautkutė‑Rustecka offered a compelling presentation on artificial intelligence as a new frontier for creative expression.

Panels with celebrated collectors such as David Nahmad, Murat Vargi, and Patrizia Sandretto Re Rebaudengo further illuminated the personal, cultural, and philanthropic motivations behind building a collection with impact.

A gala dinner and a gift to the planet

The summit concluded with a gala dinner at the Hôtel de Paris’ Salle Empire, attended by Prince Albert II. During the evening, members of the MPL community presented a donation to the Prince Albert II of Monaco Foundation to support youth-focused environmental initiatives—underscoring the summit’s commitment to aligning influence with purpose.

See also: 

Interview: Monaco Private Label’s Chloé Leclercq and her vision for the global elite club

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Main photo: Chloé Boscagli, source: Government Communications Department

 

Unfiltered: Dual perspectives on feminine power unite at Espace 22

by: Kyriaki Topalidou
02/07/2025

At Espace 22 in Monaco, ‘Unfiltered’, a duo exhibition featuring Swedish photographer Johan Grundin and French-Swedish painter Vicky Giraud, presented contrasting yet complementary perspectives on female identity and empowerment. 

Curated by Marbella’s Fusion Art Gallery, the exhibition – which ran until 30th June – offered art enthusiasts the opportunity to witness how to distinct artistic voices approach the same subject.

Johan Grundin brings his mastery of body painting and photography to create ethereal images. Working exclusively with performance artists and dancers, Grundin captures subjects who are already comfortable with their bodies and self-expression.

“Johan works with performance artists and dancers who are really expressive, and he captures these beautiful moments of a woman letting go of her feelings,” explained Irina Machneva Mota, partner and director of Fusion Art Gallery.

What distinguishes Grundin’s approach is his treatment of nudity—while his subjects are often unclothed, his photography deliberately avoids sexualisation. Instead, he presents the female form as a canvas for artistic expression, using body paint, dramatic lighting, and smoke effects to create atmospheres that exist outside of time and space.

Johan Grundin photography, photo by Monaco Life.

Inner dialogues on canvas

Vicky May Giraud approaches feminine identity from an entirely different angle. The artist delves into the psychological landscape of womanhood through her series ‘Queen of the Deck’ and ‘Duality and Reflection’.

“In this series, duality and reflection, Vichy shows several personalities of one woman,” Mota explained. “She also started working with texts that she puts in the images. You can see that this is an inner dialogue happening—when you talk to yourself, and sometimes one sub personality tells you one thing and another one says something conflicting.”

Giraud’s paintings present what Mota describes as a ‘female fatale’ aesthetic—women who are bold, powerful, and unafraid.

However, unlike traditional femme fatale imagery, these works explore the complexity of female identity, acknowledging that strength and vulnerability can coexist within the same person.

Vicky May Giraud inner dialogue art, photo by Monaco Life.

Contrasting visions, unified message

The exhibition’s strength lies in how these two distinct artistic voices complement each other. Grundin documents women who have already embraced their freedom and power, capturing them in moments of uninhibited expression. His subjects exist authentically, comfortable with their bodies and emotions.

Giraud, conversely, presents an aspirational vision—exploring the journey toward self-acceptance and the internal negotiations that women navigate daily.

“For her, it’s something that she wants to become,” Mota observed. “And for Johan,  he works with women, and he depicts them how they are.”

See more in Kyriaki Topalidou’s video reel below…

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Main photo by Monaco Life.

Italian workers’ association ACLI launches in Monaco

by: Kyriaki Topalidou
02/07/2025

The stunning Équivoque bar overlooking Port Hercules provided the perfect location for the official inauguration of Monaco’s newest cultural organisation on Monday. ACLI – The Association Chrétienne des Travailleurs Italiens – Principauté de Monaco, aims to strengthen ties within the Italian community while promoting sustainable development in the Principality. 

The association celebrated its launch on 1st July with champagne, gourmet canapés, and ambitious plans for the Italian community. President Ginevra de Masi welcomed guests to the elegant venue, outlining the organisation’s mission to promote Italian heritage.

ACLI, which received official government recognition on 18th March 2025, operates under the umbrella of ACLI Terra (Associazioni Cristiane Lavoratori Italiani), with national President Nicola Tavoletta of ACLI Terra attending the inaugural ceremony.

Made in Italy focus

De Masi highlighted the organisation’s track record in promoting Italian excellence across multiple territories.

“Since 2023, we have been organising events to promote Made in Italy agro-food products,” she explained to Monaco Life. “The success of these events has made us more collaborative and active, leading to this expanded programme.”

The Monaco association has already secured an exciting collaboration for November with the Italian Embassy, coinciding with the Week of Italian Cuisine in the World.

Unique positioning 

De Masi also highlighted the Principality’s special significance. “Nobody has thought to create something like this before. We had established presence in France, in Marseille, and throughout Italy, but Monaco represents something special for our community.”

The association’s headquarters at Les Mélèzes, 9 rue Plati, will serve as a hub for cultural activities, environmental education, and professional networking.

ACLI Monaco aims to promote work culture, social integration and environmental sustainability, particularly in territories with significant Italian communities.

The organisation plans to offer seminars, conferences, forums, and cultural performances. After the official presentations wrapped up, guests continued networking over cocktails whilst enjoying spectacular views of Monaco.

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Main photo by Monaco Life.

 

Where to catch the best fireworks on the French Riviera and Monaco this summer

by: Kyriaki Topalidou
01/07/2025

The French Riviera is about to explode with colour this summer as the region prepares for its most dazzling fireworks season. Cities around the coast are prepping for charming village celebrations and world-class pyrotechnic competitions. 

Two spectacular fireworks evenings are on Monaco’s calendar this season. The first celebration on 26th July promises to be a complete family affair, kicking off with bouncy castles before the sky erupts in brilliant colours, followed by DJ sets and pop-rock music that will keep the party going well into the night.

The second show is scheduled for August 9th with an entirely new show format, enhanced family entertainment, and pop-rock concerts.

Beyond these two spectacular firework shows, Monaco’s Quai Albert 1er will host a full summer animation program from July 18th to August 24th. The programme will feature go-karting, basketball courts, duck fishing, carousels, trampolines, mini boat rides temporary tattoo stands, a ninja warrior course, asm kids tour activities, and four food stands – all with free access throughout the summer season.

Celebrations spread throughout the French Riviera

Cannes presents perhaps the most sophisticated programme with its Festival d’Art Pyrotechnique, running from 4th July to 24th August. This international competition showcases pyrotechnic companies from Sweden, Spain, Italy, Germany, Japan, and France, each presenting themed displays lasting 20-25 minutes. The displays begin at 22:00, fired from barges across a 500-metre maritime frontage.

The Festival pyromélodique in Antibes represents one of the region’s most established traditions, attracting over 10,000 spectators annually to the Bay of Juan-les-Pins and Fort-Carré beach. Running from 13th July to 24th August, the festival includes Bastille Day celebrations in both Antibes and Juan-les-Pins, followed by Thursday evening displays throughout August. All events offer free access, making them particularly popular with families.

Beyond the major cities, Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat hosts its Grande Nuit Vénitienne on 2nd August, combining Venetian-themed entertainment with a grand fireworks display at 22:30. The evening features traditional costumes and masks, flag throwers, street performances, and a ballet of illuminated boats before the pyrotechnic finale.

Practical information

Most displays across the region begin between 22:00 and 23:00, with the majority offering free access. Public transport operates extended hours during major celebrations, and many municipalities implement temporary road closures to accommodate crowds.

The 2025 season promises to be particularly breathtaking, with international competitors bringing innovative technologies and creative themes to traditional pyrotechnic artistry

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Main photo by Monaco Life.