Football, Formula 1 and Philanthropy
As Monaco prepared to welcome the world’s fastest drivers for its most iconic sporting event, the excitement began a few days early at Stade Louis-II. The second edition of the Racing Stars Football Cup once again brought together football legends, Formula 1 stars and celebrities for an unforgettable evening that perfectly captured the spirit of the Principality.
Organised by the Barbagiuans de Monaco, under the presidency of Louis Ducruet, the charity match has rapidly established itself as the traditional curtain-raiser to Monaco Grand Prix week, blending elite sport, entertainment and generosity into one spectacular event.
Facing the Nazionale Piloti, captained by Formula 1 driver Pierre Gasly, the Barbagiuans delivered an impressive performance in front of a capacity crowd eager to witness this unique clash between motorsport heroes and football icons.
The evening’s biggest attraction was undoubtedly the arrival of Ronaldinho. The Brazilian legend and 2005 Ballon d’Or winner travelled especially to Monaco for the occasion, reminding fans why he remains one of football’s most gifted entertainers. Playing the entire first half, Ronaldinho delighted the crowd with his trademark flair, sublime technique and moments of pure magic that lit up the Stade Louis-II.
Alongside him, an eclectic lineup of personalities took to the pitch, including Nikos Aliagas, Paul de Saint Sernin, Paul Mirabel, Ludovic Giuly, Tibo InShape and actor Ricky Whittle, all proudly representing the Barbagiuans.
The Nazionale Piloti fielded an equally impressive squad featuring Formula 1 stars Carlos Sainz, Isack Hadjar, Felipe Massa and rising Mercedes talent Kimi Antonelli. Football legends Leonardo Bonucci and Clarence Seedorf also strengthened the drivers’ team, adding even more prestige to the occasion.
Despite the quality on both sides, it was the Barbagiuans’ experience that quickly proved decisive. Led by former professionals Ludovic Giuly, Sébastien Squillaci, Gaël Givet, Flavio Roma, Olivier Veigneau and Valère Germain, the Monaco side dominated proceedings from the opening whistle.
By halftime, the Barbagiuans had built an impressive 4-1 lead, with Louis Ducruet himself adding his name to the scoresheet, much to the delight of the home supporters.
The entertainment continued during the interval as Monaco-based DJ Yann Muller, also a member of the Barbagiuans squad, transformed the stadium into an open-air celebration with an energetic performance before football resumed.
Following the break, head coach Marco Simone rotated his squad extensively, giving every participant the opportunity to enjoy the occasion. Personalities including GregMMA also joined the action, adding to the relaxed and festive atmosphere.
Although the Nazionale Piloti pulled one goal back to make it 4-2, the Barbagiuans quickly regained control and sealed an emphatic 6-2 victory, successfully defending their Racing Stars Football Cup title.
Yet beyond the scoreline, the true winner of the evening was charity. As with every Barbagiuans event, the match served a greater purpose, with proceeds benefiting Mercy Ships and Les Soins de l’Espoir, two organisations dedicated to improving lives through humanitarian and medical support.
Reflecting on another successful edition, Louis Ducruet praised the collective spirit that made the evening so special.
With football, Formula 1 and philanthropy once again coming together under the Monaco sky, the Racing Stars Football Cup has firmly established itself as one of the Principality’s most distinctive annual events and the perfect way to launch Grand Prix week.
Photo credit @Frédéric Nebinger, Palais Princier de Monaco
