For its 20th anniversary, the prestigious Prince Albert II Challenge once again transformed Monaco’s coastline into a world-class arena for elite rowing…
Across an action-packed weekend, the Principality welcomed 26 teams from 19 nations, gathering the very best of international talent for one of the most anticipated events in the sport’s global calendar. Intense competition, photo-finish races and standout performances kept spectators on the edge of their seats, all under the watchful eye of His Serene Highness Prince Albert II.
Athletes competed across mixed doubles, singles and mixed fours, with every category delivering its share of drama. The radiant sunshine offered perfect visibility but little comfort, as rowers battled choppy conditions and the physical toll of back-to-back heats. Even seasoned champions were pushed to their absolute limits.
From the round of 16 onwards, margins narrowed dramatically, with more than ten races being decided by fewer than two seconds. These razor-thin duels highlighted the exceptional technical level of the crews and the determination that has become the hallmark of this Monaco regatta.
Local supporters had reason to cheer early on thanks to a strong result from Anastasia, who secured a silver medal in the women’s single on Saturday. But the ultimate triumph of the weekend belonged to the Netherlands, whose crew delivered a commanding performance in challenging waters to claim overall victory.
“It was very difficult water and a long distance, completely different from a normal sprint,” one Dutch rower told Monaco Info, describing the tactical precision required to win in Monaco.
For Mathias Raymond, President of the Société Nautique de Monaco, this 20th edition confirms the event’s rising stature: each year brings a higher level of competition, promising an even more spectacular challenge in 2026.
Image: Communication Department
