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Day: 3 October 2025

‘It’s a Dog’s Life’ book launch raises funds and awareness for SPA Monaco

by: Cassandra Tanti
03/10/2025

Club Suisse de Monaco has thrown its support behind a new charity book project, It’s a Dog’s Life Monaco, which was officially launched on 15th September in the presence of Princess Charlene of Monaco.

The coffee table book features over 350 striking portraits of dogs — from pampered pets to rescued animals — all captured by Jessica Fry. With every copy sold, funds are raised for the Société Protectrice des Animaux de Monaco (SPA), of which Princess Charlene is president.

A tribute to Monaco’s canine companions

The project was born out of a love for animals and a desire to help. As well as celebrating the deep bond between dogs and their humans in the Principality, the book highlights the stories of those still waiting for a second chance. The portraits, including some of the Princely Family’s own dogs, give a voice — and a face — to Monaco’s most loyal companions.

All proceeds from sales go directly to SPA Monaco to support the organisation’s mission of rescue, rehabilitation, and rehoming.

A launch evening of generosity

The launch took place on the terrace of the Philanthropic Foundation of Sir Stelios, with a strong show of support from the community. Princess Charlene was joined by Minister of State Christophe Mirmand, representatives from the SPA, and figures from Monaco’s political and cultural spheres.

Club Suisse de Monaco played a key role in the project’s success, offering financial and organisational support to ensure the book became a reality.

More than just a collection of photographs, It’s a Dog’s Life Monaco is a heartfelt platform for animal welfare, awareness, and action — proving that, in Monaco, compassion has four legs.

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Photo source: Club Suisse de Monaco

Pink Ribbon Monaco Gala to light up Hôtel de Paris for breast cancer research

by: Cassandra Tanti
03/10/2025

The 2025 edition of the Pink Ribbon Monaco Gala, held under the High Patronage of Princess Charlene, will take place on Saturday 11th October in the iconic Salle Empire of the Hôtel de Paris Monte-Carlo, bringing together elegance, solidarity and a shared commitment to breast cancer awareness.

This year’s event will raise funds for research into lobular breast cancer screening, led by Dr Florent Hugonnet with the support of the Princess Grace Hospital Centre. Combining a gala dinner with a charity auction, the evening is set to be one of the highlights of Monaco’s October calendar.

Pink lights for the first time

For the first time since its creation, Pink Ribbon Monaco’s symbolic illuminations of the Principality will coincide with the gala itself. From the Salle Empire, guests will be able to enjoy views of Place du Casino and Monaco’s landmark buildings glowing in pink — a striking symbol of hope and solidarity.

The evening will feature a performance by singer and composer Yana, while Pink Ribbon Monaco’s ambassador Su Park will join guests in celebrating this moment of awareness and generosity.

Auction and raffle prizes

The charity auction will offer exceptional items, including a VIP experience at the 2026 Monaco Grand Prix, art and design works by Olivia Cognet and Carlo Bruton, a signed jersey from AS Monaco’s Paul Pogba, a Formula 1 race helmet signed by Valtteri Bottas, and an artistic view of Monaco signed by Princess Charlene herself.

A raffle, open until 31st October, allows a wider public to support the cause. Prizes include luxury stays at the Hôtel de Paris and Hôtel Metropole with fine dining experiences, treatments at the Guerlain Spa, an APM Monaco jewellery set, a Versace handbag, and an exclusive “Glass Skin” treatment by Glam Monte-Carlo, valued at €500.

A month of awareness

The gala is part of a broader campaign running throughout October, organised by Pink Ribbon Monaco in collaboration with Segraeti, the Métropole Shopping Centre and the Princess Grace Hospital. Activities and guest appearances will continue to keep breast cancer prevention in the spotlight.

Founded in 2011, Pink Ribbon Monaco has become the Principality’s leading association for breast cancer awareness, organising annual walks and illuminations. Since 2024, it has been under the Honorary Presidency of Princess Charlene, working alongside Monaco’s institutions to promote gender equality and health awareness.

See also: 

Pink Ribbon Monaco names Su Park as ambassador and head of events

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Photo credit: Stephane Dana, Government Communications Department

AS Monaco Rugby launch 2025/2026 season with rooftop celebration

by: Kyriaki Topalidou
03/10/2025

AS Monaco Rugby officially kicked off their 2025/2026 campaign with a season launch event at the Centre Cardio-Thoracique de Monaco on October 2nd, bringing together players, partners and sponsors on the centre’s panoramic terrace. 

The evening combined official photography for all three teams with a champagne reception, celebrating a strong start to the season.

Guy Nervo, delegated president of the Centre Cardio-Thoracique de Monaco, was present at the event and also gave a short speech highlighting the longstanding partnership between the two organisations, which began in 2016. He explained that their partnership is based on their shared values of collective commitment, teamwork and respect.

The club this year has strengthened its squad with players from across France and abroad. “We want to achieve our goal of moving up to Fédérale 1,” explained sports manager David Bolgashvili. “That’s why we’ve reinforced the team and have a very strong squad for this season.”

Nicolas Bonnet has joined as co-coach following Florian Romain’s departure for Grasse. “I’m very pleased with the start of the season,” said Bonnet, who previously worked with Bolgashvili at Nice. “But the hardest part is still to come, particularly the next block with the three teams from Hérault.”

Women’s programme revitalised

Carla Marill also announced a new partnership between AS Monaco’s women’s section and Solea 7. The collaboration has already shown results, with 17 players attending the first training session.

“It’s great to see so many girls starting to play rugby,” said Marill.

AS Monaco’s women’s team, photo by Monaco Life

Perfect start of the season

The first team has recorded three consecutive victories: 43-18 against USM Montélimar, 56-0 at home against St Marcelin Sport, and a win against RC Les Angles. Players however remain cautiously optimistic. “We’ve made a good start, but Fédérale 2 is getting harder and harder,” they explained.

Meanwhile, new signing Lucas Pittavino praised his integration, “we’re having a dream start to the season with strong potential.”

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Main photo of AS Monaco Rugby by Monaco Life.