An extraordinary event bringing together 150 children facing difficult life circumstances has unfolded in the Var, as ‘C’est Eux les Champions’ returned for its fifth and most impactful edition yet — with the support of racing drivers, first responders, local businesses, Camille Gottlieb and Arthur Leclerc – two prominent figures of Monaco’s new generation who are quickly becoming known not just for their famous names, but for their growing commitment to social causes.
Created in 2019 by Monaco businessman Philippe Demanet and his partner Marie Dubos, C’est Eux les Champions — ‘They Are the Champions’ — began with a simple mission: to bring joy to children who face difficult realities, be it through illness or challenging home lives. What started with just 20 participants has grown into a major annual gathering. This year, on Tuesday 28th October, 150 children took part in a high-octane, emotion-filled day designed to celebrate their strength and give them memories to last a lifetime.
“The goal is simple,” organiser Philippe Demanet told Monaco Life’s Cassandra Tanti, “to make them smile, to bring them all together so no one feels different. For one day, they’re all just kids, all here to have fun.”
From the thunder of sports cars and the hum of a superbike, to fire brigade demonstrations and one-on-one time with police officers trying on official gear, the day was packed with activities — all tailored to make every child feel like a champion.
Camille and Arthur: star power with heart
For the first time, Camille Gottlieb and Arthur Leclerc, two of Monaco’s most recognisable young figures, served as honorary godparents of the event. Their involvement brought a wave of star quality — but more importantly, heartfelt engagement.
“For us, it is just one day,” said Camille, “but for these kids, it is perhaps the most wonderful day of the year. I think it is very important to be here with Arthur, as godparents of the event. If I can spread love wherever I am, I am happy.”
The event began with a spirited lap of the Circuit du Var, where Arthur — Monegasque racing driver and younger brother of F1 star Charles Leclerc — took Camille for a spin in a classic Ferrari 308 GTB. “It was good for him,” she joked afterwards, “not so much for me because I don’t like speed and I was a little scared. But he’s a great driver, so it was all good.”
Arthur, who immediately committed to the event after being invited by Camille, said he felt deeply moved by the children he met throughout the day. “It is such a pleasure to see so many kids here enjoying the day — perhaps the most exciting day of their life. I don’t think many of them have been in a race car, so just showing them what it’s like on track, explaining what happens in the car, that’s really special.
“It touches me quite a bit to see all these kids smiling and happy, despite everything they may be going through.”
A track filled with horsepower — and heart
This year’s event saw 36 cars take part, from Porsche and McLaren to Alpine, Lotus, BMW and smaller sportscars donated for the day by passionate drivers. Arthur’s Ferrari came courtesy of Garage Virage-C, while long-time supporters like Team FJM with Alpine, Dominique Demeyer with a Porsche 911, and Jeremy Debels with his group of volunteer drivers returned once more to lend their wheels.
Motorbike stunt rider Thibaut Nogues brought an extra jolt of adrenaline, and the Monaco Supercars garage is always on hand with Porsches for the special event. Riviera Security, a loyal partner of the event, ensured safety on-site.
Crucially, the day’s energy was not just about speed — it was also about community. The local fire brigade and police forces thrilled the children with uniformed demonstrations and personal interaction, and actor Sofian Ribes, star of Un Petit Truc en Plus, brought warmth and humour to the day.
Generosity without borders
The event’s success is built not on corporate sponsorship, but on collective goodwill. From Leclerc supermarket and McDonald’s in Le Luc donating food and drinks, to the Mercure Brignoles Golf de Barbaroux & Spa offering accommodation, support flowed in from all directions. YouTubers such as Adyx Clubsport and Lucas Verbier helped spread awareness, and charities like Les Enfants de Frankie and Le Pirate Blanc helped bring the children to the track.
The success of the day was made possible by the dedication of countless volunteers and supporters who worked quietly behind the scenes to bring it all together. As Philippe Demanet put it, “We can’t forget the incredible smiles of the children — they are the true champions of life — and that’s what this day is all about.”
As the engines cooled and the children departed, hearts full and smiles lingering, C’est Eux les Champions was a reminder of joy, resilience, and the power of showing up, even if only for one day.
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All photos provided