His Serene Highness Prince Albert II and Her Serene Highness Princess Charlène officially inaugurated Box98, Monaco’s newest motorsports and leisure complex, on Friday, March 28. This cutting-edge venue, located in the heart of the Principality, promises to redefine indoor entertainment for residents and visitors alike.
The grand opening welcomed members of the Princely family, including Louis and Marie Ducruet, Camille Gottlieb, and Gareth Wittstock, alongside a lineup of elite athletes. World number one cyclist Tadej Pogacar and elite race car drivers Carlos Sainz Jr., Stoffel Vandoorne, Nyck de Vries, and Jake Dennis were among the stars who joined the festivities. In a tribute to Monaco’s motorsport heritage, HSH Prince Albert II and HSH Princess Charlène, wearing personalised helmets, took to the track and recorded the first lap times on a karting circuit inspired by the Monaco Grand Prix.
Box98 is the vision of Monégasque driver Clivio Piccione, who aimed to create a world-class facility that reflects Monaco’s passion for motorsport. Following a call for tenders in summer 2024, Piccione’s ambitious project was selected in September, and with the support of a dedicated team, the venue was completed in just three months. Transforming the former Prince of Monaco’s Automobile Collection site into a 4,700-square-meter hub of innovation and adrenaline, Box98 has set a new standard for entertainment in the Principality.
The centrepiece of the complex is a 400-meter multi-level indoor karting track, designed by Paolo Gagliardini of PGK Design, a leading expert in race circuit engineering. Elevated for 90 percent of its length, the track features steep inclines, tight hairpin turns, and a special resin-coated surface replicating real asphalt for maximum grip. Safety has been prioritised, with patented deformable barriers, shock-absorbing foam, and real-time telemetry tracking. The facility operates 30 high-performance electric karts, catering to all ages with adult, junior, and dual-seater models, each equipped with digital steering wheel displays and lap time tracking.
Beyond karting, Box98 offers nearly 30 entertainment zones, making it Monaco’s most comprehensive indoor leisure destination. Visitors can experience Sector One racing simulators, remote-controlled mini-buggies, arcade games, precision shooting, basketball, bowling, billiards, foosball, and air hockey. A multipurpose space hosts karaoke, blind tests, and themed game nights, while an advanced digital setup with LED screens and a seamless Apex-powered registration system enhances the visitor experience. A lounge, boutique, snack bar, and VIP area provide additional comfort and entertainment options.
Box98 officially opens to the public on Tuesday, April 1, with operating hours from 11:30-23:00 Tuesday to Thursday, 11:30-00:00 on Friday, 10:00-00:00 on Saturday, and 10:00-19:00 on Sunday. The venue is closed on Mondays.
With its fusion of motorsports, technology, and immersive entertainment, Box98 is set to become Monaco’s premier leisure destination. For more information, visit www.box98.mc or follow @box98monaco on Instagram.
Image courtesy of Eric Mathon – Palais Princier
