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Brazil’s Stephan de Freitas Barcha claims Longines Global Champions Tour Grand Prix in Monaco

by: Kayla Sauceda
06/07/2026

The Longines Global Champions Tour Grand Prix took place on Saturday 4th July, with Brazilian rider Stephan de Freitas Barcha emerging victorious after an intense competition. He became only the second Brazilian rider in history to win in the Principality.

The final stretch of the jump-off required immense focus before Barcha celebrated with a shout and raised fist as victory was confirmed. The emotion continued as he listened to Brazil’s national anthem play against the backdrop of Port Hercule. This victory secured his “Golden Ticket” to the Super Grand Prix in Riyadh later this year.

World number 37 de Freitas Barcha claimed the title following a nine-rider jump-off. Riding Dinozo Imperio Egipcio, a 13-year-old Selle Français stallion by Diamant de Semilly, bred by Danielle Prince, de Freitas Barcha delivered an outstanding performance. Having finished fifth at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games with Chevaux Primavera Imperio Egipcio, Brazil’s top-ranked rider recorded the biggest victory of his career.

“It’s an incredible feeling,” he said, visibly emotional. “Winning my first five-star Grand Prix here on this historic Monaco arena is amazing. This victory is for everyone around me. My horse is the ‘special one.’ He always wants to go clear and always gives his best. I feel so lucky to experience this.”

Despite setting the time to beat early, Barcha had to wait until the final jump of the last rider to celebrate his win. French rider Kevin Staut, riding Vida Loca Z, came close to securing a fourth consecutive French victory. However, a slight touch on the final obstacle resulted in a fault that dropped him down the standings.

The podium also featured Italy’s Piergiorgio Bucci in second and Germany’s Christian Ahlmann in third. After eight rounds on the Longines Global Champions Tour, Belgium’s Abdel Saïd retained first place ahead of Austria’s Max Kühner and Australia’s Edwina Tops-Alexander.

Before the Grand Prix, Belgium’s Pieter Devos, riding his 12-year-old mare Jarina J, won the Monte-Carlo Société des Bains de Mer – Casino de Monte-Carlo Trophy. “My mare jumped really well today. When she’s feeling good, she’s extremely competitive and very fast,” said Devos.

The final CSI2* event, the Grand Prix Institut Esthederm, was won by American rider Kaitlin Campbell. She edged out Monaco’s 21-year-old Kristina Klebanova by just three hundredths of a second.

The 2026 edition of the Longines Global Champions Tour once again showcased world-class show jumping in Port Hercule, bringing together many of the sport’s leading riders at one of the season’s most prestigious competitions.

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Photo credit: LGCT

Villa Paloma presents major exhibition dedicated to Victor Brauner

by: Kayla Sauceda
03/07/2026

The Nouveau Musée National de Monaco invites visitors into the world of one of Surrealism’s most influential figures with a major new exhibition dedicated to Romanian artist Victor Brauner.

Presented at Villa Paloma from 3rd July to 3rd January 2027, Victor Brauner: L’Aventure Magique showcases more than 160 works spanning the artist’s career, offering an in-depth exploration of his unique visual universe shaped by dreams, mythology, spirituality, and esotericism.

Despite his close association with the Surrealist movement after settling in Paris in the 1930s, Brauner developed a highly personal artistic language that distinguished him from his contemporaries. Throughout his career, he drew inspiration from a wide range of sources, such as folklore, alchemy, astrology, non-Western artistic traditions, and ritual objects, blending these influences into a symbolic universe of his own.

The exhibition traces Brauner’s artistic journey from his early years through to his later works, presenting paintings, drawings, sculptures, objects, and archival materials, many of which come from an exceptional private collection established in Monaco. Organized around several themes, the exhibition reflects on the artist’s relationship with Surrealism while highlighting the recurring motifs and symbols that shaped his creative vision. The exhibition is further complemented by 10 extra-Western art objects formerly belonging to Brauner, on loan from the Musée d’Art Moderne et Contemporain de Saint-Étienne Métropole.

Among the themes explored are metamorphosis, mythology, spirituality, and Brauner’s fascination with what he described as the magical dimensions of existence. A selection of objects and personal archives is also on display, offering insight into Brauner’s imagination and creative process.

According to exhibition curator Camille Morando, the exhibition aims to share “the magical adventure of this great artist with as many people as possible” through a unique private collection presenting some of the 20th century’s most singular and captivating works.

Accompanying the exhibition is a catalogue published by Hatje Cantz, featuring essays by specialists and further insight into the life and work of an artist whose visionary world continues to captivate audiences today.

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Photo provided. 

Ronaldinho, Sainz and Gasly headline star-studded Racing Stars Football Cup in Monaco

by: Kayla Sauceda
05/06/2026

The second edition of the Racing Stars Football Cup returned to Stade Louis-II on Wednesday 3rd June, bringing together the Barbagiuans Monaco, led by President Louis Ducruet, and a team of drivers consisting of Formula 1, Formula 2, Formula 3, and other international motorsport stars. Alongside professional footballers and international personalities, the teams faced off in front of an enthusiastic crowd.

Held ahead of the Monaco Grand Prix weekend, the event once again brought together motorsport and football personalities in support of charitable causes. The event’s impact goes beyond sport, supporting charities worldwide. This year, funds raised will be donated to Mercy Ships, an organisation operating hospital ships to provide free surgical care across Africa, and Les Soins de l’Espoir, a charity that supports underprivileged individuals in Vietnam by funding surgical procedures, medical care, and the development of healthcare facilities.

Fans filled the stadium in anticipation of an exciting weekend ahead. Formula 1 drivers Carlos Sainz, Pierre Gasly, and Isack Hadjar all committed to their roles on the pitch, while Kimi Antonelli made an appearance, greeting fans with autographs and photos despite not competing. They were joined by Clarence Seedorf, Paul Aron, Norman Nato, and other motorsport personalities.

On the other side of the pitch, Louis Ducruet was joined by football legend Ronaldinho, French influencer Tibo InShape, French MMA personality GregMMA, Mr. Thank You, and more. The Barbagiuans secured a 6-2 victory over the pilots, with camaraderie displayed throughout the afternoon.

Following the match, fans had the opportunity to receive autographs from participants and take photos with them from the stands. Among those in attendance was Prince Albert II.

The event served as an energetic start to the Monaco Grand Prix weekend, bringing fans closer to some of motorsport’s biggest names in a different setting.

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Photo credit: Frédéric Nebinger / Prince Palace of Monaco

Cap-d’Ail to Plage Mala: one of the French Riviera’s most beautiful coastal walks

by: Kayla Sauceda
27/05/2026

Just outside of Monaco, one of the French Riviera’s most beautiful coastal trails awaits in Cap-d’Ail. Beginning near the Promenade Cap-d’Ail and stretching towards Plage Mala, the route offers a scenic escape filled with stunning sea views, hidden beaches, and a glimpse into one of the Riviera’s most beautiful corners.

The path begins next to Plage Marquet, tucked behind a small parking lot. From the outset, you are met with incredible sea views of the Mediterranean’s striking blue waters, setting the tone for the walk ahead. As you continue along the path, you’ll come across many different tiny beaches, as well as quieter spots where locals come to enjoy the sea.

A scenic moment along the route, just minutes into the walk. Photo credit: Kayla Sauceda / Monaco Life

One of the standout moments comes only minutes into the route. A crowd favourite photo opportunity, a narrow archway, can be found along the path. If you look behind you after walking through, you’ll be met with a beautiful view of the sea, though you can always leave it a surprise for the return journey. Informational signs are also placed throughout the trail, sharing details about various plants and animals you may come across during the walk.

For the majority of the walk, the path is well-paved and clean. However, on days when the water gets rougher, it is important to be mindful, as you may get splashed and should take extra care to avoid slipping.

A quiet stop along the route for those looking to pause before continuing towards Plage Mala. Photo credit: Kayla Sauceda / Monaco Life

Additionally, about 10 minutes in, after the first small bout of stairs and incline, you’ll find the Aire de Pique-nique. This seating area offers picnic benches where visitors can enjoy lunch, take a moment to rest, read, or simply enjoy the views.

The trail is regularly used for training purposes, making it popular among runners as well. Families with children and dog owners also frequently make the walk, though many choose to turn back before reaching the more demanding pre-Mala stairs or end up carrying their little ones for that part.

As the walk continues, the trail gradually becomes more demanding, though turning back at any point is completely okay. As you begin to approach Plage Mala, this is where the battle of the stairs really begins. Unfortunately, many of the stairs are not as well-paved as the earlier path itself. Despite there being a variety of ways to access the beach, many visitors share the same feedback regarding the number of stairs involved. Still, the reward feels fitting. Plage Mala offers some of the bluest waters on the Riviera, paired with a serene atmosphere.

With both a restaurant and water sports available during the summer, many may choose to cool off and go for a swim, have a bite to eat, or maybe even rent a boat before returning towards the Cap-d’Ail port.

As the trail offers little shade, visitors should be sure to bring water, apply sunscreen before beginning, and come prepared for plenty of sun. For those looking to escape Monaco for a few hours, the coastal trail from Cap-d’Ail to Plage Mala offers a rewarding walk well worth the journey.

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Photo credit: Kayla Sauceda / Monaco Life

Monaco’s Elie Okobo named Betclic Elite MVP as playoffs begin

by: Kayla Sauceda
22/05/2026

After years of championships, individual honours, and standout performances, Elie Okobo has added one more accolade to his résumé. The Monaco guard has officially been named Betclic Elite MVP for the 2025-2026 season, claiming his first league MVP title over Nadir Hifi and Mathis Dossou-Yovo as the club enters the playoffs.

The 2025-2026 season has certainly been one to remember for Okobo. The guard averaged 17 points, shot 71.3% from two-point range, 50.7% from beyond the arc, and averaged 4.5 assists per game. He ranked amongst the top five scorers of the season and led the league in player evaluation with an 18.5 average. Over the years, the French national has developed into one of the league’s top performers, with the 2025-2026 season further reinforcing his status among the Betclic Elite’s best.

From a season high of 28 points in November to a season high of 9 assists in May, his performance remained consistent from the beginning of the season through to the playoffs.

Despite a complicated season with the club, Okobo’s performance on the court remained steady. In a season marked by setbacks and obstacles, Okobo proved himself to be a leader on and off the court. Whether through impressive three-point shooting or performing under physical intensity with reduced rotations, he continued to deliver for Monaco. He performed consistently while balancing an intense EuroLeague schedule with domestic competition.  The schedule proved physically demanding, with recent months seeing up to four games in a span of seven days where the roster was reduced to eight players.

Okobo was not an occasionally explosive player; rather, he was a reliable backbone of the club throughout the season. Although he may not have always been the “loudest” performer on the court, he was always there showing up to get the job done and adapting to what the team needed on a given night. If the three-point shots were not falling, his focus shifted to assists, defensive intensity, and controlling the flow of the game.

In his years playing for Monaco, he has remained composed under high-pressure situations, developed chemistry with his teammates, and controlled the game well in both point guard and shooting guard roles.

After winning three national championships, Finals MVP in 2022, Coupe de France Final MVP in the 2022-2023 season, and Leaders Cup MVP earlier this season, the league MVP award adds another accomplishment to an already highly decorated career. Nearing the end of his fourth season with Monaco, it marks another milestone in his time with the club.

Despite receiving the league’s highest individual honour, Okobo was quick to redirect recognition to those around him. “I’m the most valuable player, but you’re the most valuable teammates,” he said following the announcement, reinforcing the team-first mentality that has defined much of his season.

Heading into the playoffs, this MVP win could give Okobo an extra push to navigate his team into the championships, especially as their roster remains reduced. With Monaco still managing a shortened rotation, the award comes at a pivotal moment in the season. As the team begins its playoff run, Monaco will once again look to one of its most reliable players to help lead Monaco’s pursuit of another championship.

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Photo credit: AS Monaco Basket

Ronaldinho to headline Racing Stars Football Cup ahead of Monaco Grand Prix

by: Kayla Sauceda
19/05/2026

The Racing Stars Football Cup will return to Stade Louis-II on Wednesday 3rd June at 3:30pm to kick off Monaco Grand Prix week, bringing together Formula 1 drivers, football legends, and international celebrities for a charity gala match led by the Barbagiuans Monaco.

Organised by the Barbagiuans Monaco, under the leadership of President Louis Ducruet, the event will see the Barbagiuans Monaco facing off against the Nazionale Piloti, a team of determined drivers looking for a comeback after last year’s defeat.  “Once again this year, we are going to experience a great moment of sport, sharing and emotion, all in support of causes that are especially close to our hearts,” said President Louis Ducruet.

With an ambitious programme following a successful 2025 revival, the match is expected to be a festive curtain-raiser to open one of the Principality’s most anticipated sporting weeks.

Among the headline names confirmed for this edition is Brazilian football legend Ronaldinho, who will represent the Barbagiuans Monaco for the first time. With a decorated history, Ronaldinho won the 2005 Ballon d’Or, became a world champion with Brazil in 2002, was a two-time FIFA World Player of the Year, and won the UEFA Champions League with FC Barcelona, making him one of the event’s biggest attractions. “I didn’t hesitate for a second. Receiving this invitation was an immense joy, and it will be an even greater joy to play and make my contribution,” Ronaldinho shared when discussing his participation. He further added that Monaco’s connection to motorsport made this occasion especially meaningful, noting his longtime passion for Formula 1.

Along with Ronaldinho, several other names are expected to take part in this event. Drivers including Carlos Sainz Jr. and Pierre Gasly are set to participate, while Formula 2 drivers Luke Browning and Oliver Goethe are also expected. French comedian Paul Mirabel, presenter Nikos Aliagas, and Tibo InShape are also expected to attend. Former footballers Ludovic Giuly, Flavio Roma, and Leonardo Bonucci have been confirmed for the event.

Following Mika Häkkinen serving as the event’s official ambassador in 2025, 2026 will feature motorsport icon Jacky Ickx filling the role. “What is beautiful is using energy, talent, and passion in support of positive causes. This event embodies exactly that: beautiful football, people united by enjoyment, sharing, and solidarity,” Ickx said.

Beyond the field, the event focuses on solidarity and commitment as it supports two major charities. Mercy Ships is an organization that provides free surgical care to those in need around the world, particularly in Africa. For over 45 years, Mercy Ships has sailed across the world, bringing hope and healing to those who need it most. Additionally, Les Soins de l’Espoir focuses on disadvantaged communities in Southeast Asia in the medical and paramedical fields. This organisation helps fund surgeries and develop healthcare structures.

As the event draws closer, more surprises and participants are expected to be announced. Tickets for the Racing Stars Football Cup can be purchased here.

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Photo provided