The Barbagiuans of Monaco have launched Un Prince et des Légendes, a new book honouring the team’s legacy with insights from legendary players. Proceeds from the book’s sales will benefit the Fight Aids Monaco association.
On Sunday 27th October, the Barbagiuans of Monaco unveiled their book, Un Prince et des Légendes, at the Sportel Awards. The launch was accompanied by a meet-and-greet and autograph session with the legendary players who have shaped the team’s history since its founding by Prince Albert II of Monaco in the 1980s.
Un Prince et des Légendes explores the origins of the Barbagiuans, originally known as Munegu Autu—”Monaco Autumn” in the local dialect. It pays tribute to the team’s sporting and cultural history, detailing significant moments from the club’s more than 40 years of existence, and highlights the evolution of the team, showcasing its growth with the inclusion of iconic international players such as Delio Onnis, Arsène Wenger and Youri Djorkaeff, among others.
Today, the team is headed by Louis Ducruet, the nephew of Monaco’s sovereign, Prince Albert, and the son of Princess Stéphanie. Ducruet was present at the event, alongside several of the Barbagiuans most celebrated former players.
Ducruet noted, “The availability of certain legendary footballers for so many years honours us; they contribute greatly to our group’s renown, and it was important for the passionate public to discover through this book their deep attachment to the Barbagiuans of Monaco… Even if the group’s status has changed, this spirit of conviviality must remain the spearhead of our current organisations. It’s part of the heritage that has been handed down to me, and one that I’m proud to represent today.”
The book also features contributions from sports journalist François Verdenet, who captures major milestones in the team’s development, including previously unpublished testimonials from Prince Albert II, who reflects on his experiences as a player and his interactions with notable figures from AS Monaco.
In addition to its historical narrative, the book discusses the Barbagiuans’ participation in prestigious charity events, such as the Fight Aids Cup, an annual sporting event that unites figures from around the world for charity.
Proceeds from book sales will partly benefit the Fight Aids Monaco association, chaired by Princess Stéphanie.
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Photo credit: Sportel Monaco