Monaco’s iconic Stade Louis II recently played host to a unique sporting event: a charity match between the Barbagiuans and Circus FC…

More than just a football match, the event once again embodied the Principality’s commitment to essential causes, in particular the fight against  AIDS. The match was part of a continuum of solidarity and prevention initiatives undertaken by Monaco over the decades.  

The charity match at the Stade Louis II is more than just a sporting event. It  is a platform to remind people of the importance of solidarity and collective  mobilisation in the face of major causes, such as the fight against AIDS. On Wednesday 22 January, football legends such as Patrice Évra, the sponsor of this  5th edition, Robert Pirès, Raphaël Varane and Christian Karembeu laced up their  football boots to proudly support this worthy cause. Through this event, Monaco is showing that sport and humanitarian commitment can combine to create a lasting  positive impact. 

Fight AIDS Monaco: a key player in support and prevention  

Founded in 2004 by H.S.H. Princess Stéphanie of Monaco, Fight AIDS Monaco is a pillar of this national commitment. The association does not limit its activities to Monaco. It extends its support to countries such as Madagascar, Burundi, Mauritius and Ukraine, where access to treatment and services is often limited. 

Fight AIDS Monaco stands out for its deeply human and inclusive approach.  Through its drop-in centre, the association offers a safe and caring space for people living with HIV. These individuals, who are often isolated and vulnerable, find a place where they can confide in others, be listened to without judgement and receive moral and material support. In addition to weekly consultations, the association organises recreational activities, outings and weekends to recharge  their batteries, helping to boost the well-being and self-confidence of its  beneficiaries. 

The organisation also responds to financial emergencies for HIV-positive people in distress, working with other associations and social services. This one-off but vital aid reflects Fight AIDS Monaco’s mission: to leave no one by the wayside.

An exemplary public health policy since 1988  

As early as 1988, the Principality implemented an ambitious public health policy to make HIV a controlled threat. This strategy is based on two major pillars:  prevention and screening. The anonymous and free screening centres deployed  throughout the Principality provide easy access to testing for all, reducing social  and psychological barriers. At the same time, Monaco has stepped up its  awareness-raising campaigns in schools and businesses, helping to break the  taboos surrounding HIV and promote responsible behaviour. 

This proactive approach has enabled Monaco to position itself as a model in the  fight against AIDS, with a focus on education and early detection, crucial elements  in halting the spread of the virus. 

Princess Stephanie : an international figure in the fight against AIDS  

H.S.H. Princess Stéphanie’s involvement in this cause extends far beyond  the borders of Monaco. In recognition of her dedication, she was appointed  UNAIDS Special Representative in 2006. This role enhances the visibility of  Monaco’s actions and helps to raise international awareness of the importance of  the fight against HIV. 

By combining local and international action, public policy and community  initiatives, Monaco remains at the forefront of the fight against HIV/AIDS. The  Barbagiuans’ charity match against Circus FC is a further illustration of this  unwavering commitment, combining awareness, support and hope for a future  without AIDS. 

Louis Ducruet, like his mother H.S.H. Princess Stephanie, is also deeply involved in  the fight against AIDS. He has given a new dimension to his commitment as  president of the Barbagiuans. Initially a group of friends of Prince Albert II, the  team has evolved over the years into a veritable Monegasque sporting institution.  It was in this context that the Fight Aids Cup was created, an annual charity event  that sets Louis Ducruet’s team (Barbagiuans) against Princess Stéphanie’s team.  The match, which brings together former football stars and committed  personalities, raises substantial funds for the Fight Aids Monaco association. By  combining sport and solidarity in this way, Louis Ducruet is perpetuating his  mother’s legacy while giving new impetus to the fight against this disease 

This fight, led by iconic figures such as H.S.H. Princess Stéphanie or Louis  Ducruet and supported by the entire Monegasque community, is an inspiring  example for the whole world.

Image: David Niviere ABACAPRESS.COM