Prince Albert II delivered his annual New Year’s address on Tuesday, reflecting on 2025 as a year of political, economic and sporting success for Monaco whilst calling for continued unity and progress in 2026.
The video message, published on social media channels, concluded with Princess Charlene, Hereditary Prince Jacques and Princess Gabriella joining the Prince. The twins alone delivered the traditional MonĂ©gasque greeting “Viva Munegu” to close the address.
“As the world prepares to close the page on 2025 and open that of 2026, I want to send each of you my best wishes for health, success and happiness,” Prince Albert said. “And I want to wish our entire community to continue developing in serenity and unity.”
Political and economic achievements
The Prince highlighted several successes during 2025, beginning with political and diplomatic achievements including visits from foreign heads of state and the organisation of the Blue Economy and Finance Forum in June, which he described as “a decisive step in implementing a new development model respectful of the seas.”
Economic results remained strong, with healthy public finances, flourishing businesses and sustained attractiveness demonstrated by remarkable results recorded throughout the year, according to the Prince.
Sporting achievements earned particular mention, with exceptional performances by Monegasque athletes bringing recognition to the country across multiple disciplines including tennis, sailing, equestrian, swimming and Formula 1.
Human achievements above all
However, Prince Albert emphasised that the year’s principal successes were human. “This year again, our community demonstrated its strength and unity, and knew how to meet great challenges,” he said.
He cited the July celebrations marking 20 years of his reign as a moment of communion for the community. “We continued to advance together toward common objectives, founded on progress and the general interest,” the Prince said.
“Our values, our unity, our model have once again this year demonstrated their strength, our strength,” he stated. “I therefore hope that 2026 will in turn be an opportunity to make this model shine.”
Support for those suffering
The Prince expressed particular thoughts for those experiencing hardship. “At the moment of looking toward 2026, I have a special thought for those among us who are in sorrow, those who suffer in body or soul,” he said. “To them too, I want to express my affection, that of Princess Charlene, that of my family and our support to all.”
He emphasised that unity extends beyond moments of celebration. “United when things go well, we also know how to be so during more painful periods,” Prince Albert said. “It is all together that we will make 2026 a great and beautiful year, for Monaco and for each of us,” he concluded.
Multilingual closing
The address ended with the Princely Family appearing together to deliver New Year greetings in multiple languages: “Bonne annĂ©e Ă tous! Happy New Year! Bon anu noevu!” before Prince Jacques and Princess Gabriella alone proclaimed “Viva Munegu!” in MonĂ©gasque.
Stay updated with Monaco Life: sign up for our free newsletter, catch our podcast on Spotify, and follow us across Facebook,  Instagram, LinkedIn, and Tik Tok.
Photo credit: Michaël Alesi/Palais princier.