Following the formal announcement at the end of last year that the Principality had been chosen as the 2025 World Capital of Sport by the Association of European Capitals and Cities of Sport (ACES), Prince Albert II has proudly unveiled a commemorative plaque at the Palais Princier to mark this landmark achievement.
Along with the Prince, the ceremony—held in the Salon des Glaces on Tuesday 18th February—was attended by Monaco’s highest-ranking officials, including Acting Minister of State Isabelle Berro-Amadeï and Minister of the Interior Lionel Beffre. Both played key roles in the proceedings: Berro-Amadeï officially handed over the symbolic ACES flag to the Prince, who then entrusted it to Beffre, marking the formal transfer of this esteemed title.
The commemorative plaque, which includes the names of all the cities and nations to have held the title since 2019, along with the signatures of the respective heads of state, was then presented to ACES President Gianfranco Lupattelli. The signing of the plaque by Prince Albert stands as a testament to Monaco’s enduring commitment to fostering athletic excellence and promoting sport on a global scale.
“Sport in the Principality knows how to assert its international influence with talent because a city-state can be a global reference for ethical, sustainable, open and committed sport,” said Prince Albert at the event. “I deeply believe in the positive and lasting impact of the sporting values that I strive to transmit through the various functions I occupy within the Sports Movement and the International Olympic Committee.”
In 2024, Bulgaria’s Sofia was celebrated as World Capital of Sport, and now it is Monaco’s turn to shine. The ACES award recognises the Principality’s significant contributions to the global sports community, its dedication to making sport accessible to all, its cutting-edge infrastructure and its support for international competitions.
Throughout the year, this distinction will be celebrated at various sporting events across the Principality, including the milestone 40th anniversary of its premier sports arena, the Stade Louis II.
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Photo credit: Michaël Alesi / Palais Princier de Monaco