Alcohol sales will be temporarily prohibited across the Principality on Thursday 27th August ahead of AS Monaco’s UEFA Conference League match against Polish club Górnik Zabrze.

The restriction will apply to all businesses in Monaco from 2.30pm, although the time at which sales can resume will vary by district. The match is scheduled to begin at 6.45pm at Stade Louis II.

In Fontvieille, Jardin Exotique, Moneghetti, Sainte-Dévote, La Condamine, Monaco-Ville and the Port Hercule area, the ban will remain in force until 6.15pm.

Businesses elsewhere in the Principality will be prohibited from selling alcohol between 2.30pm and 5pm.

The ministerial decision applies specifically to the sale of alcoholic drinks. It does not impose a general ban on possessing or consuming alcohol.

Authorities cite concerns over travelling supporters

The measure was introduced over concerns about possible disorder involving travelling Górnik Zabrze supporters. In the decision, the government referred to recent incidents involving groups of the club’s supporters during European fixtures. It said approximately 700 fans attended a match against a Turkish club on 21st July, including 300 identified as potentially high-risk, while 882 travelled to Budapest on 5th August, including 400 considered high-risk.

According to the government, heavy alcohol consumption had preceded incidents involving supporters at previous matches. The temporary sales restriction is intended to reduce the risk of disturbances inside and outside Stade Louis II.

Businesses that fail to comply may face penalties under existing legislation. The measure will be overseen by Monaco’s Department of the Interior.

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