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Day: 26 April 2026

Prince Albert II takes a lap of the Monaco Historic Grand Prix circuit in a century-old Bugatti Royale

by: Cassandra Tanti
26/04/2026

Prince Albert II took a ceremonial lap of the Circuit de Monaco on Saturday as part of the Monaco Historic Grand Prix, seated aboard a Bugatti Type 41 — better known as the Bugatti Royale — which marks its centenary this year.

The Prince was joined in the vehicle by Christophe Piochon, president of Bugatti Automobiles, and Michel Ferry, vice-president of the Automobile Club de Monaco. The car was driven by the head of the workshop at the Musée National de l’Automobile – Collection Schlumpf in Mulhouse.

The Bugatti Type 41 was conceived by Ettore Bugatti in the 1920s with the stated ambition of producing the most prestigious and powerful car in the world. Fitted with an engine of nearly 13 litres, only six examples were ever built, making it among the most significant automobiles in history.

The Coupé Napoléon

The example present in Monaco is the so-called Coupé Napoléon — also known as the Coupé du Patron — which was Ettore Bugatti’s personal car for many years before being acquired in 1963 by the Schlumpf brothers. It is now considered the centrepiece of the Mulhouse collection and is sometimes described as the Mona Lisa of the automotive world.

Photo credit: Michael Alesi – Palais Princier

Saturday’s appearance follows Prince Albert’s visit to the Musée National de l’Automobile – Collection Schlumpf in October 2024, during which the Sovereign was shown the museum and its holdings.

On public display in Monaco

Following its circuit appearance, the Bugatti Royale will be on public display at the Collection Automobile de S.A.S. le Prince de Monaco on Port Hercule from 27th April to 3rd May. It will then appear on the Collection’s stand at the Top Marques salon from 7th to 10th May before returning to Mulhouse.

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Photo credit: Michael ALESI – Palais Princier

 

AS Monaco deliver under pressure to secure EuroLeague playoff spot

by: Kayla Sauceda
26/04/2026

AS Monaco delivered a brilliant performance against FC Barcelona in their do-or-die matchup on Friday 24th April, competing for the final EuroLeague playoff spot. This 79-70 victory for Monaco proved one thing: they will defy all odds to keep their place in the competition.

After a difficult loss earlier in the week, coach Manuchar Markoishvili said, “No matter what happens, we have to play until the end.” This mindset proved decisive, as Monaco competed for every moment of the 40-minute game.

The game began with a different intensity than earlier in the week, reminiscent of the team seen in Monaco at the end of the regular season. An aggressive defense was evident immediately, applying consistent pressure to Barcelona.

With the return of Terry Tarpey nearing the end of the first quarter, an additional spark was ignited in the arena. In his high-energy return, Tarpey recorded 7 points, 4 rebounds, and 1 steal in just 5 minutes on the court.

Monaco’s momentum continued through the remainder of the first half, where the team operated with strong cohesion. Although Barcelona pushed to close the double-digit gap, Monaco responded each time, taking a 14-point lead into halftime.

The third-quarter struggles returned, as the team shot only 22%, committed 6 turnovers, and saw their lead reduced to just 5 points heading into the final quarter.

Although the arena felt a different energy at this point, the fans, players, and coaches refused to give up. Monaco regained control, emphasizing their intense defense and improving their shooting percentage. A three-point shot from Jaron Blossomgame, who recorded a double-double on the evening, extended the lead to 9 points with just over 2 minutes remaining.

Daniel Theis added 16 points, while Mike James recorded a double-double, further contributing to the victory. The team demonstrated true unity and worked together to secure their place in the playoffs against Olympiacos, beginning next week. With two teams who share a strong competitive history, this playoff battle will certainly be one not to miss.

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Photo credit: AS Monaco Basket