Sporting stars swapped competition for a shared cause in Monaco as Peace and Sport staged its Ride for Peace alongside the Grand Départ of La Vuelta…
The event, supported by His Serene Highness Prince Albert II, brought together personalities from several sporting disciplines for a symbolic ride through the Principality, promoting sport as a tool for peace, dialogue and unity. Among those taking part were former professional cyclist Alexandre Vinokourov, Stéphane Roux and Monegasque rugby international Antoine Zeghdar, with cyclists joined by athletes from rugby and track and field.
The initiative formed part of Peace and Sport’s involvement in La Vuelta, using the international attention surrounding one of cycling’s three Grand Tours to spread its message to a wider audience.
For the athletes, however, there was plenty of fun alongside the symbolism. Some admitted that returning to a bicycle proved rather more demanding than expected, while others spoke of the pleasure of riding together and reconnecting with fellow sportsmen and women.
One participant summed up the philosophy behind the event by comparing cycling with life itself: whatever difficulties appear along the way, the important thing is to keep moving forward.
With La Vuelta providing the backdrop, the Ride for Peace offered a reminder that sport can unite people far beyond the finish line.
Image: Prince’s Palace