Monaco Weekly News

This week, NEWS.MC TV looks back at a lively and eventful start to 2026 in the Principality.

Monaco rang in the New Year in festive style as thousands gathered across the Principality to welcome 2026 in a joyful and secure atmosphere. Casino Square was at the heart of the celebrations, drawing families, friends and visitors who filled the streets late into the night to mark the occasion.

Behind the scenes, a major security operation ensured the smooth running of the festivities. More than 70 police officers and 50 firefighters were mobilised on New Year’s Eve, an increase compared to previous years, reflecting the scale of the crowds around Casino Square, the Christmas Village and the Port. Authorities confirmed the night passed without major incidents.

In education, temporary measures have been put in place for students at Annonciade high school following the evacuation of the former Charles III College due to nearby embankment works. Distance learning began on January 5, with in-person classes expected to resume within two to three weeks as solutions are finalised.

The festive period has also brought cautious optimism for Monaco’s retailers and artisans. While final figures are still pending, businesses reported strong footfall throughout the holidays, driven in part by Italian visitors and international tourists. Early January sales launched during this peak period, reinforcing confidence in the Principality’s retail sector.

Monaco also marked a decade of digital resilience as the Monegasque Digital Security Agency celebrated its 10th anniversary at the Yacht Club de Monaco on January 6, in the presence of Prince Albert II and senior officials. Director Frédéric Fautrier reflected on ten years of protecting state services and critical national infrastructure against cyber threats.

Looking ahead, Société des Bains de Mer outlined ambitious plans for the future during its New Year press conference on January 7. Chairman Stéphane Valeri highlighted strong financial results, with revenue up 10 percent in the first half of the 2025–2026 financial year and net profits reaching 127 million euros. More than 30,000 people gathered in Casino Square on New Year’s Eve, double the attendance seen the previous year.

A new chapter also begins for the Monaco Junior Chamber of Commerce as Lucas Dubois takes on the presidency this month. He has set out a clear ambition to strengthen the voice of 18- to 40-year-olds in the Principality, with a focus on entrepreneurship, innovation and Monaco’s economic attractiveness.

On the sports front, the Roca Team made an emphatic start to 2026 in the EuroLeague, overpowering Partizan Belgrade 101–84 at the Salle Gaston Médecin on January 6. The momentum continued two days later with a 101–92 away victory against Valencia, securing a fifth consecutive EuroLeague win and confirming Monaco’s strong form on the European stage.

This week, NEWS.MC TV is joined by Nicholas Frankl, Chairman and CEO of My Yacht Group. In an exclusive interview, he discusses the evolution of Monaco’s yachting sector, the changing expectations of international clients, and how innovation is reshaping luxury experiences at sea.

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This week’s featured interview welcomes Gavin Sharpe, Leadership and Performance Coach, who shares insights into performance, mindset and leadership at the highest level.

Follow NEWS.MC weekly coverage of the people, events and stories shaping the Principality of Monaco.

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This week in the Principality of Monaco, current events were joined by a look back at a landmark year for the country, highlighting Monaco’s growing influence on the international stage.

🔍 Science & Heritage

New light is being shed on Europe’s prehistoric past beneath the Grimaldi cliffs near Ventimiglia. Scientists from the Museum of Prehistoric Anthropology of Monaco are using advanced mobile scanning technology to analyse a 230,000-year-old human bone directly on site, offering valuable insights into early human movement, health and evolution.

🌊 Community & Tradition

Festive spirit filled Larvotto beach as nearly 200 swimmers took part in Monaco’s traditional Christmas swim. Led by free-diver Pierre Frolla, the event raised funds for Monaco Liver Disorder and once again demonstrated the strong sense of solidarity and community within the Principality.

🐠 Culture & Environment

The Oceanographic Museum welcomed visitors throughout the holiday season with an immersive and educational programme centred on its flagship exhibition Mediterranean 2050. Through interactive experiences and virtual dives, the museum reaffirmed Monaco’s long-standing commitment to ocean conservation and environmental awareness.

​​ Major Events

Preparations are already underway for the 2026 Monte-Carlo Rally. Volunteer marshals have completed intensive training sessions in the surrounding mountain stages, ensuring the highest safety standards ahead of one of the world’s most prestigious motorsport events.

🩰 Arts & Culture

Ballets de Monte-Carlo premiered Ma Bayadère by Jean-Christophe Maillot at the Grimaldi Forum. Attended by H.R.H. the Princess of Hanover, the contemporary reinterpretation of the classical ballet was met with critical acclaim for its artistic ambition, emotional depth and striking staging.

📊 2025 in Review – A Landmark Year for Monaco

The week also featured a special retrospective on 2025, a defining year for the Principality. One of its most symbolic moments was the celebration of the 20th anniversary of the reign of His Serene Highness Prince Albert II, marking two decades of leadership, international engagement and environmental advocacy.

On the global stage, Monaco strengthened its diplomatic and environmental influence by hosting the Blue Economy and Finance Forum, welcoming delegates from nearly 100 countries and securing key commitments on ocean protection and sustainable finance. The Principality also reinforced its ties with France during the first State visit by a French president since 1984, underlining shared priorities in sustainability and international cooperation.

Sport played a central role in 2025, with Monaco being named World Capital of Sport 2025, recognising its commitment to inclusive and ethical athletics. This momentum was reflected in notable achievements across disciplines, further enhancing Monaco’s international visibility.

🏀 Sport Highlights

Closing the year on a high note, Monaco’s Roca Team delivered standout performances in the EuroLeague with major victories over Real Madrid and Barcelona. Meanwhile, Monaco’s Matthew Strazel shone at the LNB All-Star Game, securing victory for Team France with a decisive final shot.

🎙️ Interview of the Week

This week’s featured interview welcomes Gavin Sharpe, Leadership and Performance Coach, who shares insights into performance, mindset and leadership at the highest level.

Follow NEWS.MC weekly coverage of the people, events and stories shaping the Principality of Monaco.

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Produced in association with  @MonacoInfo  

Copyright © 2025 NEWS SARL. All rights reserved.

Over the past week, Monaco has once again highlighted its international influence, economic stability, and vibrant cultural life. A major sporting announcement confirmed that the Principality will host the Grand Départ of the 2026 Vuelta a España, reinforcing Monaco’s long-standing ties to elite cycling and its global visibility in international sport.

On the economic front, Monaco celebrated excellence within its business community during the 14th Monaco Economic Club Awards, recognising leaders in innovation, sustainability, and entrepreneurship. This momentum was further underlined by the National Council’s adoption of a record 2026 budget, projecting a surplus of €8.8 million and supporting major infrastructure, cultural projects, and expanded social services.

International cooperation also featured prominently, with Monaco strengthening its civil security partnership with Mauritania through a week-long exchange focused on urban risk management and emergency response, continuing a collaboration that dates back nearly three decades.

Cultural life took centre stage with the 50th anniversary of the Princess Grace Academy, celebrated through a prestigious gala honouring five decades of artistic excellence. The festive atmosphere continued with the launch of Monaco Under the Stars, a contemporary performance attended by the Princely Family, combining artistic creativity with charitable engagement.

Public safety remained a key focus, as authorities intensified holiday-season roadside checks to combat dangerous driving, while a preventive evacuation was ordered near Lycée Albert Ier due to landslide risks, underscoring the Principality’s commitment to resident safety.

In sports, AS Monaco Basketball recorded a convincing away victory against Cholet, strengthening their position at the top of the Betclic Élite standings.

The week’s programme also featured an interview with Stefanie Engel, co-owner of High Society Ski Fashion, who shared insights into the brand’s identity, its positioning within the luxury sportswear market, and the values driving its international development. Her perspective highlighted the intersection of craftsmanship, innovation, and lifestyle branding, echoing Monaco’s close ties to luxury, entrepreneurship, and creative excellence.

Overall, the week reflected Monaco’s dedication to cultural vitality, economic strength, public safety, and international outreach, while continuing to promote innovation and excellence across all sectors. 

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The week’s programme also featured an interview with Stefanie Engel, co-owner of High Society Ski Fashion, who shared insights into the brand’s identity, its positioning within the luxury sportswear market, and the values driving its international development. Her perspective highlighted the intersection of craftsmanship, innovation, and lifestyle branding, echoing Monaco’s close ties to luxury, entrepreneurship, and creative excellence.

Overall, the week reflected Monaco’s dedication to cultural vitality, economic strength, public safety, and international outreach, while continuing to promote innovation and excellence across all sectors. 

Subscribe to our free daily newsletter: 

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Copyright © 2025 NEWS SARL. All rights reserved.

This week, NEWS.MC TV brings you the latest from across the Principality, beginning with Monaco’s first Attractiveness Meeting. Held on December the 11th, the new economic forum gathered leaders from both public institutions and the private sector to shape a long-term strategy aimed at strengthening Monaco’s competitiveness. The meeting laid the foundations for ongoing cooperation to address financial challenges and further enhance the Principality’s appeal on the world stage.

Also on December the 11th, the Espace Léo Ferré hosted a lively farewell concert before its move to Îlot Pasteur, closing its era with an evening dedicated to the biggest musical hits of the 1990s and 2000s. The crowd sang along to favourites performed by Las Ketchup, L5 and Colonel Reyel, sending the iconic venue off in style.

On December the 12th, Their Serene Highnesses Prince Albert II and Princess Charlène joined the Monaco Red Cross for its annual distribution of Christmas parcels. The celebrations began at the Rosine Sanmori crèche, where the princely couple helped hand out gifts and shared moments of delight with the youngest members of the community.

Later that same day, the princely couple also attended Monaco’s 20th annual Christmas Ball in the Hôtel de Paris. Held under the High Patronage of Princess Charlène, the glamorous charity event raised funds for her foundation through a Sotheby’s-led auction.

Turning to December the 13th, Prince Albert II and Princess Caroline of Hanover travelled to the Ardennes for another chapter of their historic heritage initiative. Visiting Arnicourt and Château-Porcien, the siblings deepened connections between Monaco and the region linked to the ancient Grimaldi legacy.

Sport and celebration filled Monaco’s streets on December the 14th for the 30th U Giru de Natale. More than 2,000 runners set off from the Formula 1 start line for a festive 10-kilometre circuit that swept through landmarks from Casino Square to the Prince’s Palace, continuing a much-loved Monaco tradition.

That same Sunday, St. Paul’s Anglican Church marked its 100th anniversary with a Nine Lessons and Carols service. The centenary celebration on Avenue de Grande-Bretagne drew a full congregation and welcomed His Serene Highness Prince Albert II to mark the milestone.

On December the 16th, the Sovereign visited elderly residents at the Rainier III Centre, accompanied by Camille Gottlieb. The visit, part of the Monaco Red Cross Christmas programme, saw Prince Albert handing out gifts, sharing stories, and enjoying musical performances with residents.

The festive spirit continued on December the 17th at the Princely Palace, where hundreds of Monegasque children aged 5 to 12 enjoyed a magical early Christmas celebration. After a special show in the courtyard, presents were distributed personally by the Princely Family, including the young Prince Jacques and Princess Gabriella.

Monaco’s sporting culture also took centre stage as the Yacht Club of Monaco wrapped up its year with the traditional winter cocktail evening. The event celebrated sailing achievements, welcomed new members, and honoured Prince Charles of Bourbon of the Two Sicilies and Stefano Roberti for success in the Smeralda 888 and J70 classes.

On the basketball court, there was disappointment for the Roca Team. In Vitoria-Gasteiz, Trent Forrest produced a standout performance to lead Baskonia to an 85–73 victory over Monaco. Forrest recorded 17 points, 7 rebounds, 5 assists and 2 blocks in just 24 minutes, ending Baskonia’s seven-game losing run against the Monegasque side.

This week on NEWS.MC TV, our guest is Ian Sosso, Founder of Monte-Carlo Capital. In an exclusive interview, he discusses the evolution of the investment landscape, Monaco’s role in shaping global finance, and the future of venture funding in the Principality.

Produced in association with  @MonacoInfo  

Copyright © 2025 NEWS SARL. All rights reserved.

This week on NEWS.MC TV, our guest is Ian Sosso, Founder of Monte-Carlo Capital. In an exclusive interview, he discusses the evolution of the investment landscape, Monaco’s role in shaping global finance, and the future of venture funding in the Principality.

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This week on NEWS.MC TV, we begin with a milestone for Monaco’s newest district. Mareterra has officially celebrated one full year since its inauguration, and in just twelve months it has grown into one of the Principality’s most impressive achievements — an eco-district that blends visionary engineering with sustainable, seaside living. What began as a bold extension into the Mediterranean is now a flourishing neighbourhood setting new standards for green urban design.

Monaco then turned its attention to those who protect the Principality every day. On December 4th, the Monaco Fire Brigade honoured Sainte-Barbe, their patron saint, with a ceremony in the presence of Prince Albert II. The day opened with Mass at the Cathedral, celebrated by Archbishop Dominique-Marie David, and attended by key dignitaries including Minister of State Christophe Mirmand.

The same evening brought a celebration of peace through sport. French international footballer Grace Geyoro received the 2025 Champion of Peace award at the annual Peace and Sport gala at the Yacht Club de Monaco. She was recognised not only for her excellence on the pitch, but for her extensive humanitarian efforts supporting young people and communities worldwide.

Holiday magic swept across the Port Hercule waterfront on December the 5th as the Princely Family inaugurated Monaco’s beloved Christmas Village. This year’s theme, The Land of Bears, transforms the port into a nostalgic wonderland of oversized teddy bears, glowing lights, and a warm, storybook charm. With 24 merchant chalets, it marks the festive season’s official arrival.

Elsewhere in the Principality, a more contemplative tradition has returned. At the Carmelite Chapel, Father Jésus’s extraordinary nativity scene is drawing visitors once again, blending the classical story of the Nativity with thousands of meticulous details — from modern touches to symbolic figures such as the devil, reminding viewers of ongoing spiritual choices.

On the scientific front, Monaco’s commitment to marine research took centre stage in Paris. At the Maison de l’Océan on December 9th, Prince Albert II awarded the Grand Medals Albert I and the Thesis Prizes for 2024 and 2025. The honours, established in 1948, recognise leading contributors to oceanographic science, policy, and interdisciplinary innovation.

Cultural life in Monaco reached a new milestone this week as well, with the opening of the Caroline Media Library. Inaugurated on December 10th by Prince Albert II, the Princess of Hanover, and Charlotte Casiraghi, the 2,500-square-metre space unifies Monaco’s library, video library, sound library, children’s library, and toy library under one modern, accessible roof near Collège Charles III.

Sport delivered drama and heartbreak on December the 6th, when Hugo Micallef suffered the first defeat of his professional boxing career at the Salle des Étoiles. Competing for the IBF International super-lightweight title, Micallef was knocked down three times by Ireland’s Shan McComb before the referee ended the fight in the eighth round.

This week’s guest is Dr Anastasia Shevchenko, philanthropist at Monacolaclasse. In our exclusive interview, she discusses the organisation’s mission, her vision for educational and cultural empowerment in Monaco, and the transformative role philanthropy can play in shaping future generations.

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This week’s guest is Dr Anastasia Shevchenko, Anthropologist at Monaco la classe. In our exclusive interview, she discusses the organisation’s mission, her vision for educational and cultural empowerment in Monaco, and the transformative role anthropology can play in shaping future generations.

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This week on NEWS.MC TV, we begin with a major milestone for Monaco’s scientific community. The Monaco Scientific Centre has just wrapped up a rigorous three-day evaluation by an independent improvement committee.

Money talks, and in Monaco it seems to be singing. The Monte-Carlo Société des Bains de Mer reported on the same day that it has blasted past the half-billion mark in six-month revenue. The group posted 542.5 million euros for the first half of the 2025–2026 financial year — a tidy 10 percent rise and 47.3 million more than last year.

The festive season officially sparked into life on November the 27th as the Princely Family gathered in Place du Palais. Prince Hereditary Jacques and Princess Gabriella led the countdown that set thousands of LEDs shimmering across the Principality. Half of this year’s installations are newly upgraded for better energy efficiency — including a gleaming new light feature on Larvotto beach.

Monaco then rolled out the gold carpet for football royalty. The 2025 Golden Foot Awards honoured Antoine Griezmann, Christian Karembeu, Bixente Lizarazu, and other greats on Thursday evening. Prince Albert II attended the gala at Rampoldi, where Karembeu and Lizarazu collected the Legends Award — joining a pantheon featuring Pelé, Maradona, and Ronaldo.

Diplomacy was centre-stage the following day as the Franco-Monegasque Cooperation Commission met in Monaco on November the 28th. The long-standing bilateral forum took stock of key priorities, with particular focus on Monaco’s progress in anti-money-laundering reforms and its path towards exiting the FATF grey list.

Entrepreneurial spirit took the spotlight on November the 29th as Monaco Inspire returned to Le Méridien Beach Plaza. Founders, innovators, and aspiring entrepreneurs gathered for a morning of talks, headlined by Kelly Massol, freediving icon Pierre Frola, and the Banana Moon team.

The same evening, festive cheer shifted to Casino Square, where the Princely Family lit up the iconic plaza. A towering Christmas tree, the Casino’s majestic façade, and five enormous baubles are now draped in thousands of lights — because in Monaco, subtlety is for January.

Also on the 29th, the Salle des Étoiles shone brighter than ever as the Festival of Stars ended with a glittering gastronomic gala. Four of Monaco’s Michelin-starred chefs — Dominique Lory, Marcel Ravin, Emmanuel Pilon, and Cédric Grolet — crafted a six-course feast for 275 guests, including Prince Albert II and members of the Princely Family.

The Principality has also taken on a landmark diplomatic responsibility. Monaco is now chairing the Human Rights Committee of the Council of Europe for the first time — the body responsible for overseeing the implementation of European Court of Human Rights rulings across member states.

Back home, cutting-edge medical tech entered the spotlight as IM2S unveiled “Rosa,” a state-of-the-art surgical robot designed to assist with full knee replacements. Presented in the presence of Prince Albert II, Rosa uses pre-operative 3D modelling and real-time guidance to improve surgical accuracy

Sport rounded out the week with a bang — twice. AS Monaco Basket toppled Paris Basketball two times in the space of a few days. On Tuesday the 2nd, the Roca Team clinched a 109–103 win at Gaston Médecin to advance to the French Cup quarter-finals. Mike James was on fire, dropping 20 points in the first half and finishing on 28, steering Monaco past a late Paris surge.

This week’s guest is Francesco Mitrano, President of the Monte-Carlo Polo Federation. In our exclusive interview, he delves into the growth of polo in Monaco, the sport’s international appeal, and how the Principality is carving out its place on the global polo stage.

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