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Day: 2 October 2025

Monaco’s court marks new judicial year with 2024/2026 recap

by: Kyriaki Topalidou
02/10/2025

The opening of Monaco’s 2025/2026 judicial year kicked off with the traditional Mass of the Holy Spirit at Monaco Cathedral on Wednesday morning, before proceeding to the solemn ceremony at the Palace of Justice. 

Prince Albert II attended the ceremony, which was presided over by Francis Jullemier-Millasseau, First President of the Court of Appeal, and Stéphane Thibault, Prosecutor General.

During his speech, Stéphane Thibault revealed a staggering 34% increase in complaints and reports over the past two years, highlighting Monaco’s focus on financial crime as the Principality works to exit the Financial Action Task Force (FATF)  grey list.

Money laundering convictions have surged from just four in 2022 to 29 in 2024 and with 28 already recorded in 2025. The Prosecutor’s Office is currently managing assets worth nearly €120 million seized in ongoing cases, in addition to €531 million seized in investigation chambers.

Thibault noted that Monaco completed its second cycle of the FATF action plan last month, with the final third cycle due in January. Additionally, the FATF General Assembly acknowledged in June the significant resources and measures deployed by the Principality during the first cycle.

After the traditional Mass of the Holy Spirit at Monaco Cathedral, photo by Monaco Life.

Courts handle increased workload

The Courts of Appeal delivered 135 civil rulings during 2024-2025, up 10% from the previous year, while criminal appeals remained relatively stable with 44 correctional rulings and two criminal court judgments.

However, the most striking was the doubling of cases completed by the three investigating chambers from 46 to 96. Thibault reported that the Prosecutor’s Office resolved 10% more cases at the investigation stage, processing nearly 300 volumes.

Meanwhile, despite this increased workload, Jullemier-Millasseau proudly stated that processing times remain reasonable at approximately four months across different chambers, though additional hirings may become necessary soon.

On his part, Jullemier-Millasseau devoted much of his address to judicial independence as a cornerstone of democracy, drawing on Montesquieu’s principle of separation of powers.

“Judges must act with integrity, probity, and professional conscience,” he said. He described the rule of law not as abstract principles but as “a shield for our freedoms” and “a form of moral contract” that supports democratic society.

Regarding sentencing, the number of imprisonments increased by 10%. Monaco’s prison has 92 places with an occupancy rate below 50%, “the envy of our close neighbours”, Thibault remarked.

During the solemn ceremony, photo by Monaco Life.

Priorities for 2026

Thibault outlined three key objectives for the coming year: continued focus on financial crime, more rigorous prosecution of violence against women and vulnerable people, and modernisation of the criminal records system, which currently issues nearly 4,000 records annually from a paper-based registry of 10,000 files.

He also mentioned forthcoming procedures including plea bargaining and deferred prosecution agreements pending National Council approval, which should accelerate certain procedures.

The ceremony formally closed the 2024-2025 judicial year and opened 2025-2026 with all courts resuming full operations

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Main photo by Monaco Life.

Prince Albert II joins European leaders for Copenhagen state dinner

by: Cassandra Tanti
02/10/2025

Prince Albert II was among the distinguished guests at Amalienborg Palace in Copenhagen on Wednesday 1st October, where King Frederik X and Queen Mary of Denmark hosted a dinner for heads of state and government attending the European Political Community Summit.

The gathering, which drew leaders from nearly 50 nations, was the latest chapter in the European Political Community (EPC) – a forum created to strengthen dialogue and cooperation across the continent. The evening reception offered a symbolic reminder of unity, with monarchs, presidents and prime ministers seated side by side beneath the gilded ceilings of Denmark’s royal palace.

Monaco’s voice in European affairs

The Prince’s participation highlighted Monaco’s active engagement in Europe’s diplomatic conversation, despite the Principality’s small size. The EPC has quickly become a stage where countries work together on issues ranging from security to climate, migration and economic stability.

By joining the Copenhagen summit, Prince Albert underscored Monaco’s commitment to collective solutions. The Principality’s priorities – environmental protection, stability, and prosperity – align closely with the themes of the EPC, where collaboration between EU members and their neighbours is increasingly vital.

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Photo credit: Ida Marie Odgaard – Sebastian Elias Uth – Emil Helms – Mads Claus Rasmussen

Football: Eric Dier helps Monaco pull off astonishing comeback against Manchester City

by: Luke Entwistle
02/10/2025
Eric Dier celebrates his equaliser for Monaco against Manchester City by waving to the home fans

A dramatic late equaliser from Eric Dier secured a hard-fought draw for AS Monaco against Manchester City, as Adi Hutter’s side earned their first point in this season’s Champions League at the Stade Louis II on Wednesday (2-2).

Hutter said that his side would have to “suffer a lot” against Manchester City, and he was proven right in what was an attritional, confidence-boosting win for the Principality club. The Monaco manager has bemoaned performances all season, even when there has been the result to soften the blow. And whilst Les Monégasques didn’t secure the win against their Premier League opponents, it almost felt as though they did.

“A big, big praise for every single player. We never gave up. We left our heart on the pitch and this also makes us proud […] It was our most complete 90 minutes [of the season],” said Hutter. Much of the game was spent without the ball. Manchester City, as they so often do, dominated possession, and they weren’t lacking in incision either.

Haaland with 52 goals in 50 Champions League games

Erling Haaland, in his 50th Champions League appearance, netted with the Cityzens’ first real chance, latching onto a Josko Gvardiol dink over the defence and finishing with a deft chip. However, Monaco immediately came out of their shell and equalised just three minutes later through Jordan Teze, who scored the best goal of his career, rifling an effort into the top corner from the edge of the box.

But once Manchester City refound their rhythm, their possessional and territorial dominance resumed. Phil Foden hit the crossbar, Tijjani Reijnders dragged a shot just wide, Nico O’Reilly forced Philipp Kohn into a save, and the Swiss goalkeeper was busy again as half-time approached, as he palmed a Reijnders shot out but straight to the predatory Haaland, who couldn’t turn home the rebound from a tight angle.

But two minutes later, and with just his seventh touch of the game, he did get his second, outjumping Mohammed Salisu and putting a bullet header past Kohn.

It was more of the same in the second half. Maghnes Akliouche forced former PSG goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma into a strong save, low to his left, but the majority of the chances came for Pep Guardiola’s men. Reijnders struck the woodwork, and Haaland, on a hat-trick, forced the busy Kohn into action once again.

A surprise penalty taker for Monaco

However, in failing to put Monaco away, Manchester City were always vulnerable, and the visitors were then made to pay for their missed chances. Dier received a shin in the face inside the box. To the surprise of everyone, it was the Englishman who dusted himself off to tuck away the penalty himself. “I don’t think that Donnarumma expected it to be Dier who took the penalty. He is a safe kicker with his age and experience,” said Hutter post-match, revealing that Dier was the second-choice penalty taker, behind Ansu Fati, who had already come off.

“We deserved the point,” said a contented Hutter. The victory is not only important for Monaco’s hopes of progressing in the Champions League, for their confidence heading into the Côte d’Azur derby, but also for Hutter’s own job security amid questions around his future at the club. “I can understand the criticism… but on the other hand, I am convinced that my players are behind me,” said the Monaco manager. That was certainly evident against Manchester City.

 

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Photo source: AS Monaco

Louis Starck appointed to lead Monaco’s Hôtel de Paris Monte-Carlo

by: Cassandra Tanti
02/10/2025

Louis Starck, one of the Principality’s most respected hoteliers, has taken over as General Manager of the Hôtel de Paris Monte-Carlo, the landmark palace that has defined Monaco’s luxury scene for more than 160 years.

Louis Starck officially assumed his new role on 29th September, succeeding Olivier Thomas, and now leads a team of nearly 500 at the legendary property on Place du Casino. For Starck, the appointment marks both a professional high point and a considerable responsibility. “This is a moment of great pride, and at the same time I fully realise the responsibility and expectations that come with this position,” he said.

The Hôtel de Paris Monte-Carlo, photo credit: MCSBM

A palace with global prestige

Long considered the flagship of Société des Bains de Mer, the Hôtel de Paris is internationally recognised as one of the world’s great luxury hotels. With its Michelin-starred restaurants – Louis XV-Alain Ducasse, Le Grill and Em Sherif – and the recent arrival of celebrated pâtissier Cedric Grolet, the hotel remains a touchstone of gastronomy. Its Palace designation, 3 Michelin Keys and Forbes Five-Star status further underline its reputation. Yet, as Starck acknowledges, “there is still room for improvement” – and his mission is to nurture the heritage of the hotel while keeping its promise of always striving to surpass itself.

From Hermitage to Hôtel de Paris

Starck arrives at the Hôtel de Paris after seven years at the Hôtel Hermitage Monte-Carlo, where he gave the property a new identity as “the connoisseurs’ hotel”. He oversaw its cultural revival, introduced bold culinary ventures with chef Yannick Alléno, and navigated a major renovation programme. The success of that vision has been reflected in international recognition and the loyalty of guests who sought its distinctive blend of history and modernity.

His career began with international postings in Paris, London, Muscat and Athens before he joined the Fairmont Monte-Carlo in 2008, where he spent a decade shaping his managerial style. A graduate of Strasbourg’s hotel school with an Executive MBA from Henley Management College, he is now regarded as one of Monaco’s most personable and forward-thinking hoteliers.

The Hôtel de Paris Monte-Carlo, photo credit: MCSBM

Looking to the future

Albert Manzone, CEO of Monte-Carlo Société des Bains de Mer, described Starck as “a man whose knowledge of the Monegasque ecosystem, rich hospitality experience and competitive spirit will ensure the Hôtel de Paris continues to shine on the global stage of luxury hospitality.”

For Starck, the challenge is clear: to build on the legacy of a hotel that has hosted royalty, artists and statesmen, while ensuring its relevance for a new generation of travellers. The Hôtel de Paris Monte-Carlo, often described as Monaco’s living room, now begins a new chapter under a manager who has already left his mark on the Principality’s hospitality landscape.

See also: 

Chef Yannick Alléno brings two-starred Japanese dining to Monaco with l’Abysse Monte-Carlo

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Main photo source: MCSBM

 

Laila Schlereth welcomed as Vice Honorary Consul of Austria at Club Suisse de Monaco reception

by: Cassandra Tanti
02/10/2025

The Club Suisse de Monaco, in collaboration with the Honorary Consulate of Austria in Monaco, hosted a special evening gathering last Thursday to officially introduce Laila Schlereth as the Principality’s new Vice Honorary Consul of the Republic of Austria.

Held on the panoramic terrace of club member Urs Fähndrich, the event welcomed around 120 guests, including Holocaust survivor Herbert Traube and French Ambassador to Monaco Jean d’Haussonville, Dean of the Diplomatic Corps, and his wife Magdalena de Tornos.

Representing a life between cultures

Born to a German father and Egyptian mother, Laila Schlereth studied economics and law in Austria and has spent over three decades contributing to life in Monaco. A seasoned investor and entrepreneur in the hospitality and real estate sectors, she is also well known for her active involvement with the Yacht Club de Monaco, the International School of Monaco, and for co-founding the Monaco Oktoberfest.

“It is a great honour for me to serve in this role here in Monaco,” Schlereth said. “With roots in Germany, Egypt, Switzerland, and Austria, I want to build bridges — between people, cultures, and ideas. Monaco is a place of diversity, and I look forward to representing Austrians here with full commitment — while being part of this wonderful international family.”

Herbert Traube, a 101-year-old Holocaust survivor, was special guest

A living witness to history

One of the most moving moments of the evening came with the appearance of Herbert Traube, a 101-year-old Holocaust survivor originally from Vienna. Traube fled to France with his father before joining the French Foreign Legion and fighting in the Allied landing in Provence, later serving in Indochina. After his return to civilian life, he became deputy mayor of Sainte-Agnès above Menton.

“I am both French and Austrian, but above all, I am European,” he told the crowd — words met with long and heartfelt applause.

New faces and growing ties

The occasion also served to welcome eight new members to the Club Suisse de Monaco, including Schlereth herself, now a member in both personal and diplomatic capacities.

President of the Club, Dr Arik Röschke, praised the evening as a celebration of international unity: “We are not only celebrating a new role for Laila Schlereth, but also the diversity and vibrancy of our international community here in Monaco.”

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Photos provided

Condamine Market renovation: new details revealed for 2026 transition

by: Cassandra Tanti
02/10/2025

Monaco’s Mairie has unveiled fresh details of how La Condamine Market will operate during its 13-month renovation, including new wooden kiosks, large barnums, and rent-free arrangements to support traders through the transition.

During a press conference on 1st October, Mayor Georges Marsan confirmed that the building permit has been formally submitted, paving the way for works to begin in mid-January 2026. Traders will remain in the current hall through Christmas and New Year before moving to Place d’Armes for the duration of the project.

A temporary village at Place d’Armes

Unlike earlier announcements, the Mairie has now detailed the temporary set-up. Ten newly built wooden kiosks, fully fitted with professional equipment – from refrigerated displays to pizza ovens and sushi-ready cabins – will be installed to house restaurateurs. Other traders will operate under two large barnums, with free water, electricity and equipment provided. The Solis Bio boutique will also be relocated under one of these structures, while MC Retouches, the couturier, will move to Jardins d’Apolline rent-free.

The market’s fishmonger will be rehoused in a restored pavilion on Place d’Armes, while two long-serving businesses, the butcher and City Ongles, have opted for retirement. The bar “Le Zinc” will not return, with the council instead considering a fine wine merchant more in line with the market’s future direction.

Rendering of the temporary food hall, photo courtesy Mairie de Monaco

Support measures for traders

To minimise disruption, the council will exempt traders from paying rent at their temporary stalls. “With almost no charges, the impact of the works on their professional activity will be largely reduced,” said Deputy Mayor Marjorie Crovetto.

She also confirmed that seating capacity during the relocation will exceed current levels, with nearly 300 places available for customers under the main barnum and outdoors, with shading and rain protection under study.

Construction to follow strict environmental standards

François Lallemand, Deputy in charge of heritage projects, revealed that the site will be part of Monaco’s Bâtiments Durables Méditerranéens framework, ensuring rigorous environmental standards. Noise and dust will be monitored with sound sensors, while noisy works will be restricted to off-peak hours to protect neighbouring restaurants and residents.

Importantly, access to lifts and the underground car park will be maintained, and the temporary market will be adapted for people with reduced mobility.

A promise of continuity

“This project goes beyond simply moving traders to a square to carry out works,” said Mayor Marsan. “It is about recreating a dynamic and convivial place where life continues. The market is too important to Monaco to be put on pause.”

The renovated Condamine Market is expected to reopen in early 2027, promising a modernised space that preserves its historic spirit while meeting the needs of future generations.

See also: 

La Condamine Market renovation plans revealed: What to expect and when

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Main image source Mairie de Monaco