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Month: June 2026

Monaco adopts major disability reform and grants legal recognition to family carers

by: Cassandra Tanti
12/06/2026

Monaco’s National Council has adopted two landmark laws strengthening protections for disabled people and formally recognising family carers for the first time, in what the government has described as a major new step in the Principality’s social policy.

Passed during a public session on Thursday 11th June, the legislation introduces significant changes to Monaco’s disability framework while creating a dedicated legal status for family members who care for elderly or dependent relatives. The reforms build on a series of measures introduced in recent years, including the government’s Handipact disability strategy and changes to disability benefits aimed at strengthening financial independence and inclusion.

End of the automatic transition to old-age status

One of the most significant changes concerns the long-standing rule that automatically transferred disabled people from disability status to old-age status at the age of 60.

The government argued that the system no longer reflected the reality of many situations, often disrupting personalised care plans and creating barriers to continued recognition of disability later in life. Under the new legislation, responsibility will now fall to the disability assessment commission to determine whether disability or age-related loss of autonomy is the predominant factor in each individual case.

The reform also broadens access to financial support designed to compensate for the daily effects of disability, extending assistance to individuals who previously did not qualify for coverage despite facing substantial costs linked to their condition.

New support for parents of disabled children

The law further introduces a new allowance for parents who are forced to leave employment in order to care for a disabled child.

While Monaco already provides financial assistance and personalised support plans for children with disabilities, the government acknowledged that some families continue to face situations in which one parent has little choice but to stop working. The new measure is intended to provide income support in those circumstances while also protecting future pension rights through state-funded retirement contributions.

“When a parent is forced to stop working to look after their disabled child, it is a failure — a failure of the state’s support network for these families,” Christophe Robino, Government Councillor-Minister for Health and Social Affairs, told the National Council. “That is why we are putting in place this new provision: to mitigate without incentivising.”

Family carers gain legal status

The second law establishes a formal legal status for family carers, recognising the role played by relatives who support elderly or dependent family members at home.

Until now, this role had no dedicated legal recognition under Monegasque law despite its growing importance in an ageing society. The new framework grants carers a series of rights intended to help them balance their caring responsibilities with their professional and personal lives.

The government has presented the measure as the foundation for further reforms to come, including a future respite system that would allow carers to take temporary breaks from their responsibilities while ensuring continuity of care.

“The goal today is above all to allow the family carer to fulfil their role without it affecting their health, their social connections or their future,” Robino said during the debate.

Responding to demographic realities

The reforms arrive as Monaco continues to grapple with the implications of having one of the world’s oldest populations. According to the latest figures from IMSEE, life expectancy in the Principality stands at around 87 years, among the highest globally.

Against that backdrop, the government has described the adoption of the two laws as an important milestone in the continued development of Monaco’s social model, strengthening support for vulnerable residents while recognising the crucial contribution of those who care for them on a daily basis.

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Photo source: National Council of Monaco

Monaco presidency to host Council of Europe justice ministers for money laundering talks

by: Cassandra Tanti
12/06/2026

Justice ministers from all 46 Council of Europe member states will gather in Strasbourg on Tuesday 16th June for an informal conference on combating money laundering and terrorist financing, convened under Monaco’s current presidency of the Committee of Ministers.

The meeting, which will be opened by Monaco’s Secretary of State for Justice Samuel Vuelta Simon alongside Council of Europe Secretary General Alain Berset, focuses on strengthening the capacity of national judicial systems to respond to financial crime at a time when criminal networks are increasingly exploiting digital technology to conceal and move illicit funds.

Less than 2% of criminal proceeds confiscated

The scale of the problem is illustrated by a single figure: less than 2% of the proceeds of crime are currently subject to effective confiscation in Europe. Criminal networks and other actors are using globalisation and digitalisation to hide illicit assets worth several billion euros, circumvent international sanctions, and fund interference operations — with growing use of crypto-assets, decentralised finance, advanced digital payment systems and artificial intelligence making detection and prosecution increasingly complex.

The conference will address the gap between the legal framework that exists at pan-European level — including the Council of Europe’s Warsaw Convention on laundering, seizure and confiscation of criminal assets, and its new additional protocol specifically targeting criminal asset recovery — and the concrete results being achieved within national justice systems. Despite broadly harmonised international standards, the challenge remains translating those standards into effective investigations, successful prosecutions and actual confiscation.

Monaco’s role in the presidency

Monaco currently holds the rotating presidency of the Council of Europe’s Committee of Ministers, and the Strasbourg conference is among the key events of that term. The timing is notable: Monaco adopted its own 2026–2028 anti-corruption strategy earlier this month, itself developed in response to recommendations from the Council of Europe’s anti-corruption body GRECO.

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Photo credit: Christian Lue, Unsplash

 

Why Mauro Colagreco’s beachside pop-up became one of Grand Prix weekend’s highlights

by: Cassandra Tanti
11/06/2026

As the final beats faded and Monaco’s Grand Prix crowds drifted away from the shoreline, one of the weekend’s most unexpected successes was not found on the track, but on the beach. Casa Sunset x Mauro Colagreco transformed Le Méridien Beach Plaza into a rare meeting point between world-class gastronomy and one of the Principality’s most energetic electronic music events, challenging long-held assumptions about what fine dining can be.

On paper, the collaboration seemed unlikely. Mauro Colagreco, the chef behind the three-Michelin-starred Mirazur in Menton — named the World’s Best Restaurant in 2019 — joined forces with Sunset Monaco, the beach party institution that has become synonymous with young crowds and Grand Prix weekend. Yet what began as a spontaneous conversation between Sunset co-founder Cédric Houdrouge and Mauro Colagreco quickly evolved into one of the standout hospitality concepts of the race weekend. Within weeks, the pair had created a new format: signature Mirazur cuisine served steps from the sea, accompanied by carefully selected wine pairings and framed by Sunset’s unmistakable atmosphere.

A four-act journey through the Mirazur universe

Over three nights, guests were invited to experience a carefully curated four-act menu that reflected the philosophy that has made Mirazur one of the world’s most celebrated restaurants. Beginning with delicate opening courses including O-toro toast with Osciètre caviar and roasted langoustine, the experience moved through garden-inspired sharing plates, before arriving at dishes celebrating both land and sea, including the catch of the day with sudachi sauce and stuffed saddle of lamb. The evening concluded with a trio of desserts led by a yuzu cloud and sautéed cherries with yellow wine sabayon.

Each act felt like a continuation of Colagreco’s lifelong dialogue with nature, biodiversity and the Mediterranean landscape. It was less a tasting menu than a culinary journey, one designed to mirror the rhythm and emotion of the weekend itself.

Three MIchelin Star Chef Mauro Colagreco talking to Two Michelin Star Chef Marcel Ravin, with Sunset Co-Founder Cédric Houdrouge in the background. Photo credit: @anatolevialard

Michelin-star service, transported to the beach

What distinguished Casa Sunset from many temporary Grand Prix dining concepts was the commitment to maintaining the standards for which Mirazur is renowned. Chef Colagreco did not simply lend his name to the project; he was present throughout the evenings, circulating among tables, speaking with guests and ensuring the experience matched expectations. Much of the Mirazur team worked alongside him, bringing the same precision, warmth and attention to detail that guests encounter at the flagship restaurant.

The result was a rare example of a pop-up that genuinely delivered the quality associated with its Michelin-star pedigree. The setting may have been relaxed, with DJs preparing to take over the night and the Mediterranean stretching out beyond the tables, but the level of hospitality remained uncompromising.

Redefining the future of fine dining

Perhaps the greatest success of Casa Sunset was the statement it made about the evolution of luxury hospitality. Throughout his career, Colagreco has championed the idea that gastronomy is ultimately about emotion, sharing and human connection.

This collaboration demonstrated that excellence does not depend on formal dining rooms, white tablecloths or rigid traditions.

Sunset 2026. Photo credit: @anatolevialard

Instead, the Monaco Grand Prix weekend offered proof that Michelin-star cuisine can adapt to new environments without losing its identity. The food, the wine, the service and the people behind them remain the defining ingredients. Whether served in the contemplative surroundings of Mirazur overlooking Menton or beside Monaco’s most vibrant beach party, true hospitality is remarkably portable.

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Main photo source: Sunset

Monaco’s thriving dining scene helps hospitality sector reach €1.14 billion

by: Cassandra Tanti
11/06/2026

Monaco’s hospitality sector continued to outperform the broader economy in 2025, generating more than €1.14 billion in revenue despite an overall decline in business activity across the Principality, according to new figures published by IMSEE.

The latest Focus report from Monaco’s statistics office reveals that accommodation and food service activities recorded revenue growth of 6.3% in 2025, reaching €1.14 billion at a time when overall turnover in the Principality fell by 7.6%. The figures underline the resilience of Monaco’s tourism and hospitality industries, which remain among the country’s most important economic drivers.

Hotels lead growth as tourism rebounds

The accommodation sector was the strongest contributor, generating €812.3 million in revenue, an increase of 7.3% compared with 2024 and accounting for more than 71% of the sector’s total turnover. Restaurants and food service activities also performed strongly, contributing €327.8 million and recording growth of 3.9% year-on-year.

The positive results were supported by improving tourism indicators. Monaco’s hotels welcomed 353,875 visitors in 2025, an increase of 1.1% compared with the previous year, while occupied room nights rose by 2.1%. Hotel occupancy climbed to 64.5%, up 2.7 percentage points from 2024, with visitors from outside the European Union accounting for nearly half of all guests.

Restaurants continue to expand across the Principality

The report highlights the continued expansion of Monaco’s dining scene. By the end of 2025, the Principality was home to 314 accommodation and food service establishments, including 299 businesses operating within the food and beverage sector. Restaurants and mobile food service activities represented the largest category, accounting for 255 establishments.

La Condamine emerged as Monaco’s leading food and beverage hub, with 98 restaurant-related addresses, ahead of Monte-Carlo with 81 and Fontvieille with 41. The data also points to a steady wave of new openings, with 30 businesses created during the year compared with 20 closures.

Hospitality remains Monaco’s second-largest employer

Beyond its contribution to tourism, the sector continues to play a major role in employment. Hospitality and food services employed 8,988 people in 2025, making it Monaco’s second-largest employment sector for the third consecutive year. Employment increased by 3.1% compared with 2024 despite wider economic challenges.

The workforce is notably young, with almost 40% of employees under the age of 35. Hotels account for the majority of jobs, employing nearly 6,200 people, while restaurants and food service businesses provide employment for more than 2,500 workers.

A sector increasingly central to Monaco’s economy

The figures reinforce the growing importance of hospitality to Monaco’s economic model. While several sectors experienced more challenging conditions in 2025, hotels and restaurants continued to benefit from strong international demand, increasing visitor numbers and sustained investment in the Principality’s tourism offering.

The report also highlights the sector’s long-term evolution. While Monaco’s hotel stock includes several historic establishments dating back to before 1960, much of the restaurant sector has emerged more recently, reflecting the continued diversification of the Principality’s culinary landscape.

As visitor numbers continue to rise and occupancy rates strengthen, the latest data suggests Monaco’s hospitality industry remains one of the Principality’s most dynamic and resilient sectors.

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Photo of the Café de Paris terrace overlooking Casino Square. Source: MCSBM

 

SBM posts record revenues of €861.6 million as American clientele drives Formula 1 boom

by: Cassandra Tanti
11/06/2026

The Monte-Carlo Société des Bains de Mer Group reported record revenues of €861.6 million for the financial year 2025/2026 — a 12% increase on the previous year — with growth across every sector of its business and a shifting clientele that points to a broader transformation in who is coming to Monaco.

Presenting the results at a press conference on Wednesday 10th June, SBM president-delegate Stéphane Valeri described the year as a historic record for the group, driven by strong summer activity, exceptional casino performance and the continued expansion of the hotel and restaurant portfolio.

The American effect

One of the most striking observations from Valeri’s presentation concerned the changing profile of SBM’s clientele. North Americans and visitors from the Middle East are now the leading customer groups at the casinos, overtaking the French, British, Irish and Swiss in the hotels. The average age of guests is also falling — down by nearly a year over three years to around 45 in accommodation, and from 49 to 46 at the Monte-Carlo Beach.

The Formula 1 Grand Prix is playing a significant role in that shift. While stock exchange rules prevented Valeri from discussing the most recent Grand Prix weekend in detail — the 83rd edition having just taken place — he did not hold back entirely. “What I can say is that it was an excellent vintage across all our activities, with results well above forecasts,” he said. “It is a very important period for us, where it is possible to multiply normal daily turnover by six or seven. In particular because more and more wealthy Americans are following Formula 1. This is an effect of Liberty Media’s work in the sport, which has brought about a very significant renewal.”

The numbers

Consolidated revenue for the year ended 31 March 2026 reached €861.6 million, up €93.5 million on the prior year. Hotel revenues rose 11% to €443.1 million, with accommodation up 8% on the back of higher average room rates — boosted in part by newly renovated rooms at the Hôtel Hermitage and the Monte-Carlo Bay Hotel & Resort — and food and beverage up 11%, driven by the opening of the Cédric Grolet Monte-Carlo tea room and boutique and the first full year of Marlow at Mareterra.

Casino revenues were the standout, rising 20% to €259.6 million — a combination of higher table game volumes, a particularly favourable run of results, and growth in slot machine activity. Rental income grew 4% to €156.5 million, with residential occupancy close to 100%.

Operating profit reached €86.6 million, up 16% or €12.1 million on the prior year. Net profit came in at €112.9 million against €110.1 million the previous year. The group ended the year with net positive cash of €158.8 million and equity of €1.678 billion.

Investment continuing

SBM invested €176.8 million during the year, covering ongoing renovation programmes at the Hôtel Hermitage and Monte-Carlo Bay Hotel & Resort, and works on Monte-Carlo One in Courchevel. In early June, the group opened Gustave — the new bar at the Hôtel Hermitage — and will soon re-open the restaurant La Vigie with chef Simone Zanoni, alongside the newly renovated La Rascasse.

Valeri said the results reinforced the group’s conviction that its development strategy was the right one. “All our sectors are growing, which strengthens our belief that we must continue to implement our development strategy across all areas.”

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Photo source: MCSBM

 

Where to watch the FIFA World Cup 2026 in style across Monaco

by: Cassandra Tanti
11/06/2026

The FIFA World Cup 2026 kicks off on Thursday 11th June, and Monaco’s venues are gearing up to screen matches across some of the Principality’s most distinctive addresses — from a Lebanese restaurant at the Hôtel de Paris to the iconic La Rascasse on the circuit. Here is where to watch, and what to expect.

Em Sherif Monte-Carlo — Hôtel de Paris Monte-Carlo

Em Sherif at the Hôtel de Paris will be screening matches from 11th June to 19th July on a giant screen in its interior lounge, with the rest of the restaurant — including the terrace — continuing to operate normally. Packages are tiered by round: group stages and last 32 require a minimum spend of €200 per person, rising to €300 for the last 16, €400 for the quarter-finals, €450 for the semi-finals and €500 for the final, with the top rounds including a Magnum of Champagne per table of six. Menus combine hot and cold mezzes, mains and desserts. Advance reservations and prepayment are required. +377 98 06 88 75 / emsherifmc@sbm.mc

Blue Gin — Monte-Carlo Bay Hotel & Resort

The Monte-Carlo Bay’s Blue Gin bar will screen matches across five screens — one inside, two on the terrace, one at the bar and one in the smoking room — from 11th June to 19th July, running from 6.30pm to 1.30am. No packages are offered; the bar operates as normal, with a deposit of €50 per person potentially required for certain matches. Given the limited capacity, reservations are strongly advised. +377 98 06 00 15

Café de Paris Monte-Carlo — Place du Casino

The most accessible option on the list, Café de Paris will screen every match of the tournament from 11th June to 19th July across eight screens spread across the ground floor, first floor and two upper terrace screens. Open from 8am to 12.30am, with the regular menu on offer and no fixed packages, it is the most flexible viewing option in the SBM portfolio. Reservations are not required but are strongly recommended. +377 98 06 76 23

Marlow — Place Princesse Gabriella

Marlow at Mareterra will screen all matches live between 8.30am and 11pm from 11th to 28th June, across two screens — one on the terrace and one inside. The regular menu is available throughout and no packages are required. Reservations are recommended. +377 98 06 14 00

La Rascasse — Quai Antoine Ier

La Rascasse is the natural home of World Cup viewing in Monaco — and with a giant outdoor screen on the lower terrace, a projector and large screen on both floors, a VIP screen on each level, four televisions at the ground floor bar, three screens at the first floor bar and a large screen on the upper terrace, it has the infrastructure to match the occasion. The venue will open for major matches outside its usual hours, including key France fixtures — France v Senegal on 16th June, France v Iraq on 22nd June and France v Norway on 26th June, all at 9pm. A beer bar will be set up on the lower terrace and a match prediction game will run for France games and the knockout rounds. Reservations are strongly recommended. +377 98 06 16 16

Amazonico Monte-Carlo — Place du Casino

Amazonico will begin screening matches from 11th June in its lounge on a single screen, expanding to four outdoor screens across all exterior spaces from the quarter-finals onwards. The restaurant runs Thursday to Tuesday from 6pm to 2am, closing at 3am on Fridays and Saturdays. +377 98 06 14 14.

Le Meridien Beach Plaza

Muse restaurant at Le Meridien Beach Plaza will offer fans an opportunity to watch the two semi-finals and the final on the big screen.

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Photo of La Rascasse, source: MCSBM