A fresh chapter in Monaco’s rich sporting history is underway, with the establishment of Monaco United Football Club—an ambitious initiative placing women’s football at the forefront. Backed by the leadership and vision of former international striker Marco Simone, this new sporting entity is setting out to redefine the Principality’s role on the national and international football stage.
The club signals a deliberate break from tradition. While men’s teams have long dominated football’s structural and financial priorities, Monaco United takes a progressive stance by building its foundation around its women’s team. The goal: to create a flagship side capable of competing with France’s elite, while also embodying the values of inclusivity, excellence, and long-term growth.
Simone, who made a name for himself with AS Monaco before starring at AC Milan and Paris Saint-Germain, returns to the Principality not just to revisit past glories, but to invest in the sport’s future. After years observing the development of women’s football, his newfound focus has taken form through the creation of Monaco United—a club rooted in the human and sporting values he holds dear.
The Monaco United Women’s Team will make its debut in the French league system this season, with a mission to ascend quickly and ultimately position itself as a contender on the European stage. Recruitment is already underway to assemble a high-caliber squad, drawing talent from across Europe, Latin America, and Africa. The objective is not only to compete, but to elevate Monaco as a center of women’s football excellence.
Key to the project’s expansion is a strategic partnership with Racing City Group. Co-founders Morris Pagniello and Justin Davis bring with them a global vision and a commitment to building what they hope will become one of the most prestigious clubs in women’s football. A comprehensive, multi-year investment plan supports this ambition—spanning youth development, infrastructure, global academies, and media outreach.
While the women’s team leads the charge, the club’s development includes a men’s section and youth squads. Though starting modestly, the men’s team is set to grow within the club’s ecosystem, aiming to rise through the ranks in parallel with its female counterparts. Initial plans target team sizes of 30 to 50 players across all categories, with talent scouted through an extensive international network.
Central to Monaco United’s structure is the Monaco United Academy, a state-of-the-art development hub for boys and girls aged 14 to 23. Offering elite-level training alongside academic support, the academy is designed to nurture future professionals while promoting well-rounded development. Adding credibility to the initiative is 2018 World Cup winner Adil Rami, who serves as the academy’s ambassador and will also appear in selected matches for the men’s side.
The club’s matches and training sessions will be held at the Stade Didier Deschamps in Cap d’Ail, a venue deeply rooted in local sporting culture and located just opposite the iconic Stade Louis II. This proximity ties the new project to Monaco’s footballing heritage while reinforcing its unique and independent identity.
Monaco United Football Club stands as more than a new entry in the football landscape—it represents a shift in vision. At its core is a belief that women’s football deserves equal recognition and investment, and that Monaco can become a driving force in this movement. By cultivating talent, embracing innovation, and staying rooted in strong values, the club aims to make Monaco a reference point for excellence in modern football.
