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Month: October 2026

Formula 1 announces return to Africa with Rwanda Grand Prix deal

by: Kayla Sauceda
14/10/2026

Formula 1 has confirmed its return to Africa for the first time in over 30 years, announcing a 10-year agreement to host a Grand Prix in Rwanda beginning in the early 2030s.

The announcement, made on Tuesday 13th October, marks a significant development in Formula 1’s international expansion, bringing the championship back to Africa for the first time since the 1993 South African Grand Prix.

Officially named the Formula 1 African Grand Prix, the event will take place at a circuit in Bugesera, roughly 40 kilometres south of Rwanda’s capital, Kigali.

A NEW CIRCUIT FOR RWANDA

The planned circuit will be developed to FIA Grade 1 standards, the highest classification required to host Formula 1 races. The venue will form part of a wider development project including sports, tourism, infrastructure, and commercial facilities for the country.

The circuit’s design will incorporate the region’s natural elevation changes, with the aim of building a challenging racing experience for drivers while maintaining viewing opportunities for spectators.

The project will be led by the Rwanda Development Board, with the Grand Prix expected to support tourism, investment, and employment opportunities in the country.

OVER THREE DECADES TO RETURN

Africa last hosted a Formula 1 race in 1993 at the Kyalami Circuit in South Africa, where Alain Prost claimed victory. Since then, the continent has remained absent from the calendar despite ongoing discussions about a potential return.

Seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton has been actively advocating for bringing Formula 1 back to Africa, repeatedly calling for the continent to be represented.

Hamilton has spent several years campaigning behind the scenes, holding discussions with Formula 1 officials and stakeholders about bringing a race back to the continent. Speaking ahead of the 2026 season, Hamilton revealed that he had been pushing for an African Grand Prix for six or seven years and expressed his determination to compete there before retiring.

His support has extended to Rwanda itself, having previously visited the country and described it as one of his favourite destinations in Africa. However, Hamilton has also advocated for South Africa as a potential host, having previously suggested that Formula 1 could return to the existing Kyalami circuit before establishing a longer-term project.

Rwanda’s successful agreement follows interest from several African countries, including South Africa and Morocco, both of which had explored opportunities to host a Grand Prix.

Formula 1 President and CEO Stefano Domenicali welcomed the agreement, highlighting the importance of expanding the championship’s global presence and establishing a long-term partnership with Rwanda.

The prospect of an African Grand Prix has also received support from other drivers, including Max Verstappen and George Russell. Russell highlighted Africa’s absence from the calendar despite Formula 1’s international reach.

CONTROVERSY SURROUNDS RWANDA’S SELECTION

Despite the significance of the return, the decision to award hosting rights to Rwanda has attracted criticism over the country’s human rights record and the government’s growing investment in international sporting events.

Rwanda has been led by President Paul Kagame since 2000, with his government facing longstanding accusations of political repression, restrictions on freedom of expression, and the suppression of opposition voices. Critics have questioned whether awarding the country a major international sporting event risks providing legitimacy to a government facing such allegations.

The agreement has also renewed accusations of sportswashing, the use of a major sporting event or partnership to improve a country’s international reputation while diverting attention from political or human rights concerns. Rwanda has increasingly invested in international sports partnerships, including the NBA-backed Basketball Africa League, as part of its strategy to promote tourism and attract investors.

The country’s involvement in regional instability has further added to the criticism. Human Rights Watch and United Nations investigators have documented Rwanda’s support for the M23 armed group in the neighbouring Democratic Republic of Congo, raising questions about awarding the country such a high-profile event amid ongoing tensions.

The project also raises financial concerns, particularly given the significant investment required to construct a new FIA-approved circuit and supporting infrastructure. While Rwanda has presented the project as an opportunity for economic growth and job creation, the scale of the investment raises questions about its costs and long-term benefits.

SOUTH AFRICA REMAINS INTERESTED

Unlike Rwanda, South Africa already has an established motorsport facility, although upgrades would be required to meet current Formula 1 standards. South African officials have continued to express interest in hosting a Grand Prix, despite Rwanda securing the agreement.

For Formula 1, the agreement represents a major step towards establishing a racing calendar with a presence on every inhabited continent, marking another milestone in the championship’s international expansion.

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Photo source: Formula 1

Princely Couple inaugurates Crèche Ida, boosting childcare in Monaco

by: Virginia D’Umas
14/10/2026

Prince Albert II and Princess Charlene officially inaugurated the new Crèche Ida inside the Héméra Residence on Tuesday 13th October, marking a key moment in the Principality’s ongoing expansion of early childhood care. The Princely Couple was joined at the ceremony by Minister of State Christophe Mirmand, Mayor Georges Marsan, and senior representatives from the Mairie and Princely Government.

Following official speeches, Father Dominique Arz, representing Archbishop Dominique-Marie David, formally blessed the premises before the guests toured the new facility.

Father Dominique Arz blessing the premises. Photo Credit: Michaël Alesi / Palais princier

A 700-square-metre haven for Monaco’s youngest

Though officially inaugurated this week, Crèche Ida has been welcoming families since 2nd September. The facility provides 30 new nursery places spanning 700 square metres, complemented by a spacious 140-square-metre outdoor terrace. Day-to-day operations are managed by a team of 13 childcare professionals led by Director Manon Deloison.

Situated in the heart of the residential La Condamine district, the facility directly serves neighbouring state housing developments, expanding local capacity alongside the nearby Crèche de l’Île aux Bambins. The name Ida pays tribute to local heritage, referencing a historic villa that once stood on the site.

Strategic expansion towards 2030

Speaking at the ceremony, Mayor Georges Marsan highlighted that the project sits at the core of municipal family policy, strengthening the Principality’s capacity to support working parents.

The creation of Crèche Ida stems from a joint strategic review by the Mairie de Monaco and the Princely Government to anticipate early childhood requirements heading towards 2030. Under this initiative, modern nursery spaces are being directly integrated into new state housing construction projects.

With Crèche Ida now operational, Monaco’s communal nursery network capacity reaches 430 places, delivering immediate support to local families.

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Click on the gallery for more images of the event. Photos credit: Michaël Alesi / Palais princier

Lycée Rainier III puts Monaco’s young hospitality talent in the spotlight

by: Kayla Sauceda
14/10/2026

Lycée Rainier III welcomed some of Monaco’s rising hospitality talents on Thursday 8th October, hosting the third edition of the Young Chef, Waiter, and Mixologist (YYY) competition, which saw three young professionals selected to represent the Principality internationally.

The annual competition brought together competitors aged 28 and under from some of Monaco’s most well-known hospitality establishments, challenging them to showcase their culinary creativity, service expertise, and mixology skills before a panel of judges.

Following the competition, Rambod Amini of L’Abysse Monte-Carlo was named the winning chef, Louis Martin of Pavyllon Monte-Carlo by Yannick Alléno took the waiter title, and Thanh-Danh Morter of the Casino de Monte-Carlo secured the mixologist award.

The three winners will now form Team Monaco at the World YYY Final in London next year, hoping to build on Monaco’s second-place finish earlier this year.

YYY Monaco Chairman Robert Lee Mulcahy praised Lycée Rainier III’s continued support, particularly recognising Headmaster Leslie Giobergia, Deputy Head Christophe Joublin, and the school’s students and staff. “The attention to detail and generosity was very much appreciated,” he said.

CREATIVITY AND COLLABORATION

The competition tested participants across three disciplines, each presenting its own challenges.

The chefs were given two and a half hours to prepare and present a full three-course menu for guests, with judges assessing creativity, flavour, sustainability, and teamwork. This year’s competitors took an adventurous approach to their menus, with dishes developed around ingredients including beetroot, cauliflower, and mushrooms.

Winning chef Rambod Amini of L’Abysse Monte-Carlo prepares his dishes during the YYY Monaco competition. Photo source: YYY Monaco

Speaking to Monaco Life, Mulcahy highlighted the growing creativity demonstrated by participants, especially their willingness to experiment with their menus. He also emphasised the competition’s focus on sustainability, particularly the collaboration between chefs and mixologists.

“The chef works with a mixologist and the mixologist, as one of their tasks, takes scraps of food left over from creating the dishes and uses that in their cocktail. So it’s zero waste,” Mulcahy explained.

The waiters were assessed on their table presentation, preparation, organisation, and professionalism, while mixologists were challenged to create original cocktails incorporating mystery ingredients, with storytelling, technique, and sustainability all playing a part in the judging criteria.

Mixologist Thanh-Danh Morter showcases his skills during the YYY Monaco competition. Photo source: YYY Monaco

BUILDING CONFIDENCE BEYOND COMPETITION

For Mulcahy, one of the most encouraging developments this year was the growth demonstrated by returning competitors. He highlighted waiter category winner Louis Martin, who had previously competed without winning the title but returned this year with confidence and determination.

“It’s one thing for somebody to compete and say, ‘Oh, I didn’t win it, I won’t do it again.’ But then to go, ‘I’m going to go for it again,’” Mulcahy told Monaco Life. “As a person, his confidence has improved because of the competition. He’s taken it on as a challenge and won this year.”

Mulcahy also emphasised the importance of building a supportive environment, explaining that organisers intentionally brought finalists together the day before the competition. Participants met, shared a meal, and visited the wine cellars at the Hôtel de Paris and Distillerie de Monaco, allowing them to get to know one another before competing.

“They’re not seeing each other as competitors. They’re helping each other in the kitchen today. The mixologists are helping each other with ingredients. So it’s camaraderie, as opposed to silence and an exam approach. It’s supposed to be fun.”

MONACO SETS ITS SIGHTS ON INTERNATIONAL SUCCESS

With the national winners now confirmed, attention turns to the World YYY Final in London, where Team Monaco will compete against young hospitality professionals from around the world.

The Principality enters the next edition with a strong recent record, having secured second place overall earlier this year through the efforts of Clara Germain, Eric Maccario, and Clara Babkine.

YYY Monaco 2026 winners Rambod Amini, Louis Martin, and Thanh-Danh Morter, pictured alongside Lycée Rainier III Headmaster Leslie Giobergia and YYY Monaco Chairman Robert Lee Mulcahy. Photo source: YYY Monaco

Mulcahy explained that although competitors work in mixed teams during the Monaco competition, each participant was judged individually. The three category winners are then brought together to form the national team.

These newly selected representatives therefore have the opportunity to develop their teamwork ahead of the final, combining expertise from some of Monaco’s most recognised hospitality venues.

Beyond the competition itself, Mulcahy hopes the initiative continues to inspire the younger generation to pursue careers in hospitality, while providing emerging professionals with opportunities to develop their skills and gain recognition.

First launched in 2023 with Prince Albert II attending the inaugural awards announcement, YYY Monaco has continued to develop as a showcase for the Principality’s young hospitality talent.

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Photo source: YYY Monaco

Monaco United secure 18-0 victory ahead of Coupe de France derby

by: Kayla Sauceda
14/10/2026

Monaco United remains undefeated in its 2026-2027 season following an 18-0 victory over AC Avignonnais on Sunday 11th October. This victory marks Monaco United’s fourth consecutive league win, keeping the team at the top of the standings in its push for promotion to Division 3 at the end of the season.

Monaco took control of the match from the opening minutes, with Jade Prault opening the scoring before the team continued to add to its tally. By halftime, Monaco United had already built a 9-0 lead.

Despite the large lead, the team maintained its intensity until the final minutes, adding another nine goals to secure its largest victory so far this season. Assistant coach Alexandre Gallet praised the team for maintaining focus throughout the match.

“I am pleased with this result, which gives us three valuable points while further improving our goal difference,” said Gallet. He also highlighted the professionalism and discipline of his players, especially following such a substantial early lead.

A SUCCESSFUL WEEKEND ACROSS THE CLUB

The first team’s victory was part of a successful weekend for Monaco United across the club. The U15s recorded a 7-0 victory, while the senior reserve team also secured a win to maintain its position at the top of the standings.

The U18s also claimed a 2-1 victory, while the U11s delivered a strong performance at a festival in Villeneuve-Loubet.

ANOTHER MONACO DERBY

Attention now turns back to the Coupe de France, where Monaco United will once again face AS Monaco FF on Sunday 18th October at Stade Didier-Deschamps. This match comes less than one month after their first-ever league derby on 20th September, when Monaco United secured a 3-1 victory.

This time, the teams will be competing for a place in the next round of the Coupe de France. Gallet emphasised that the team’s approach heading into this match would remain unchanged despite the importance of the fixture, with the focus on maintaining the professionalism and determination previously displayed.

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Photo credit: Flare Vision

Azzurra Kitchen launches new Sunday buffet lunch

by: Cassandra Tanti
14/10/2026

Monaco has a welcome new addition to its Sunday dining scene. Since 13th September, Azzurra Kitchen at the Novotel Monte-Carlo has been serving ‘Le Rendez-vous du dimanche’, a Mediterranean buffet lunch that delivers surprisingly impressive food in a relaxed setting, with the added pleasure of going back for as much as you like.

I went along with my two daughters, and from the generous selection of starters to the beautifully cooked main courses and irresistible desserts, all three of us left thoroughly impressed.

Not brunch, but proper lunch

The first thing to know is that this is not a brunch. It is a full Sunday lunch served buffet-style, running from midday until 2.30pm, and the spread is substantial.

The starters alone could make a meal. A proper Caesar salad comes with a generous choice of toppings, alongside seasonal crudités, a creamy basil-tomato dish with mozzarella, a pinsa topped with tomato, cheese and chorizo, a potato and mortadella salad with fresh herbs, and a board of cured meats. On the day we visited, there were several dishes beyond the printed menu too, as well as a good selection of breads.

The entree bar. Photo by Monaco Life

The mains steal the show

It was the main courses, though, that really impressed, particularly given the buffet format. Too often, hot food left to wait under lamps disappoints. Here, everything was cooked perfectly.

The standout for me was the octopus. Served with swordfish cooked on the plancha, it was tender and beautifully done, the kind of dish you would happily order à la carte. My 10-year-old daughter, meanwhile, made a beeline for the chicken fricassée with cream and fresh girolles, and went back for more. A Parmigiano risotto and lasagne completed the hot dishes.

Guests can return to the buffet as many times as they like, but a word of advice: pace yourself.

The mains bar. Photo by Monaco Life

Leave room for dessert

For my daughters, the desserts were the undoubted highlight. Big bowls of rich chocolate mousse came topped with crunchy caramel pieces, alongside fruit coulis, delicate heart-shaped macarons, fig tarts and a traditional flan pâtissier, all freshly prepared. The children were also delighted to discover popping candy hidden throughout, a playful surprise that had them hunting for more.

For those who prefer to finish on something savoury, there is a board of fresh goat’s cheese from Peymenade and aged cheeses, as well as a basket of fresh fruit.

Relaxed, not stuffy

The atmosphere strikes a pleasant balance: sophisticated without ever feeling stuffy. On a warm day, the tables beside the pool are the place to be, while the dining room inside offers a cosier setting as the weather turns. Service throughout was warm and attentive.

The menu is the work of chef Frédéric Ramos, who draws on the cuisines of the world’s Rivieras, with live cooking adding a little theatre to the experience.

The dessert bar is a hit with adults and kids alike. Photo by Monaco Life

Good value for Monaco

Lunch costs €65 per adult, including a glass of Prosecco or an aperitif and coffee, and €30 for children up to 12. Monegasques and Monaco residents pay a reduced €59 per adult and €27 per child on presentation of the hotel’s loyalty card.

Given the range and quality on offer, and the freedom to go back as often as you wish, it represents good value by Monaco standards, and a welcome new addition to the Principality’s weekend dining scene, particularly for families.

‘Le Rendez-vous du dimanche’ runs every Sunday from 12pm to 2.30pm at Azzurra Kitchen, Novotel Monte-Carlo, 16 boulevard Princesse Charlotte. Reservations are required on +377 99 99 83 20.

See more in our video below…

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Monaco expands fashion footprint with new autumn rendez-vous

by: Virginia D’Umas
13/10/2026

The Chambre Monégasque de la Mode (CMM) is doubling down on its commitment to sustainable fashion with the launch of the ‘Monte-Carlo Fashion Week Rendez-Vous’, a new autumn-winter gathering taking place across the Principality from 14th to 16th October.

Designed as a mid-season bridge to the primary Monte-Carlo Fashion Week in April 2027, the three-day event pairs local artisanal debuts with international dialogues on circular textiles and ethical design.

Samantha and Alicia Di Iorio. Photo credit: Di Iorio Monaco

Local craftsmanship takes centre stage

The inaugural autumn edition highlights local talent, beginning with the official boutique opening of Di Iorio Monaco at the Fairmont Monte-Carlo. Founded by sisters Samantha and Alicia Di Iorio, the label represents Monaco’s first home-grown luxury footwear house.

Sensory experiences also feature on opening day with Italian luxury fragrance house Xerjoff hosting an immersive perfume workshop exploring scent as an independent art form.

Pavillon Bosio Director Thierry. Photo credit: Monaco Life

Bridging scenography and sustainability

Beyond brand debuts, the Rendez-Vous establishes an academic dialogue at the Pavillon Bosio. Moderated by Léa Calori of the Prince’s Government Communication Directorate, morning sessions on 15th October explore both the history and future of the industry.

Pavillon Bosio Director Thierry Leviez will present his new book, Théâtres de la Mode, examining fashion scenography from the 19th century to today, with sales benefiting student study programmes. Transitioning from historical context to future practice, US-based environmental stylist Runa Ray, a circular economy expert collaborating with the United Nations and the Prince Albert II of Monaco Foundation, will address global inclusion and eco-responsible innovation.

Atelier showcases and closing highlights

The event concludes on Friday 16th October as Monegasque fashion house Valtoria opens the doors to its local showroom and atelier. Guests will have the opportunity to engage directly with founder and designer Gabriela Tarkanyi Maldonado during an exclusive brunch gathering.

Running alongside the main schedule on Thursday and Friday, Italian knitwear brand Falconeri will present its latest collections alongside accessories from TheRe. Hosted in a temporary pop-up space at the Fairmont Monte-Carlo styled by Vera Facchetti Lifestyle, the showcase will culminate in a closing cocktail party, bringing the inaugural autumn edition to a close.

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Main photo credit: Monaco Woman