On Thursday, Monaco’s under‑18 rugby‑7s team departed for Budapest, full of hope and ambition as they prepare to contest the European Championships. Coached by Aurélien Lazzaro, the young Monégasques are determined to seize their first continental title, returning to the stage after narrowly missing out last year due to goal‑difference.
Last summer, Monaco’s U18s came heartbreakingly close to the crown, finishing level with Andorra but losing out on goal average. The players, still stung by that reversal, arrive in Hungary ready to write a new chapter in their rugby‑7s story.
A blended squad shaped by shared experiences
Half the squad return from last year’s near miss, while the newcomers bring the confidence of their U16 African tour in 2023, part of the inaugural South Africa–Monaco Rugby Exchange supported by the Princesse Charlène Foundation. Those shared experiences have forged a united group, eager to represent the Principality with pride.
Riding the wave set by the Seniors
This momentum follows a golden spring for Monaco’s senior team, who claimed gold at the Games of the Small States of Europe in May before being crowned European champions in Andorra in June. Their success has bolstered the U18s’ resolve to follow suit in Budapest.
U18 squad and staff
The team comprises Louis Kordzinski, Dorian Albin, Jaz Barres Mucret, Quentin Chamard (captain), Tom Lacascia, Andrea Minioni, Trystan Allioli, Neo Piezzi, Evan Gamalov, Noah Bentz, Sacha Weill and Noa Joho. Supporting them are coach Aurélien Lazzaro, DTN Jérémy Benstaali, manager Thierry Danthez and physiotherapist David Spinetta.
Tournament programme
Fans can follow Monaco via Rugby Europe Live. On Friday 18th July they face Bosnia‑Herzegovina at 10:22 and then Hungary at 15:28. Saturday sees matchups against Austria at 10:28 and Serbia at 16:16.
Monaco Life readers can anticipate an exciting weekend as the next generation of Monégasque rugby chase their own European glory, inspired by the senior team’s recent triumphs.
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Photo source Monaco Rugby