On Wednesday, May 21, 2025, on the eve of the prestigious Monaco Grand Prix, the Principality came alive with the inaugural Racing Stars Football Cup, an exceptional charity match held at the Stade Louis II.
For the occasion, Monaco’s Barbagiuans faced the renowned Nazionale Piloti, in a festive and heartfelt atmosphere.
Louis Ducruet, president of the Barbagiuans and initiator of the event, succeeded in assembling a prestigious line-up of football stars, Formula 1 drivers, motorsport figures, and popular artists. Among the personalities on the pitch were Ludovic Giuly, Matt Pokora, Benoît Saint-Denis, Paul Mirabel, Ragnar Le Breton, Pierre Gasly, and Carlos Sainz. All answered the call of solidarity in support of the Jules Bianchi Association and Be Safe Monaco, which respectively honor the memory of the late driver and work to prevent risks linked to drunk driving.
The ceremonial kick-off, highly symbolic, was given by H.S.H. Prince Albert II, H.S.H. Princess Stéphanie, Charles Leclerc, and Mika Häkkinen, two-time Formula 1 world champion and ambassador of the event. This powerful sequence launched the match under the sign of unity and commitment.
Although the mood was cheerful, the competitive spirit quickly took over once the whistle blew. After two 45-minute halves separated by a 10-minute break, the Barbagiuans claimed a brilliant victory, driven notably by a hat-trick from Javier Ernesto Chevanton. He was named Man of the Match by Louis Ducruet and Prince Albert, receiving the Best Player trophy during the post-match evening celebration.
The Barbagiuans triumphed 6–4, despite a penalty converted by Pierre Gasly that briefly allowed the Piloti to come back into the game — but ultimately it wasn’t enough.
More than 3,200 spectators gathered at the Stade Louis II to enjoy this exceptional event. This first edition of the Racing Stars Football Cup marks a new chapter for this charity encounter, which has been organized for over 30 years and which, thanks to the passion and determination of Louis Ducruet, is now entering a new era.
“I am delighted with the enthusiasm this match has generated. To see so many personalities answer the call and to be able to relaunch, with the Barbagiuans, an event so dear to the Principality is a great source of pride. It was a complete success, and I look forward to welcoming everyone again next year to continue the adventure and share more great moments together,” declared Louis Ducruet at the end of the match.
— Loris Saytour
