“THE FIGHT AIDS CUP SHINES A REGULAR SPOTLIGHT ON THE FIGHT WE ARE LEADING”

HERE WE ARE!

The highly anticipated FIGHT AIDS CUP is back for its fourth edition. On January 22, this traditional gala match between the BARBAGIUANS and CIRQUE FC will bring together several iconic figures of global football on the pitch of Stade Louis II. In addition to the regular players, other legends will join to support the event with their presence. This FIGHT AIDS CUP will also celebrate the longevity of the Monte-Carlo International Circus Festival, which marks its 50th anniversary in 2024.

Personalities, high-level competition, entertainment, and camaraderie… everything is in place for another exceptional evening, all in support of the fight against HIV through the FIGHT AIDS MONACO association.

“We want this edition, where several anniversaries will be celebrated, to be unforgettable.” On the eve of the fourth FIGHT AIDS CUP (January 22, 2024), Louis Ducruet, President of the Barbagiuans of Monaco, clearly outlines his ambitions. The nephew of Prince Albert II expresses “with pride” the enthusiasm generated by the event year after year, both among the public and the key participants. An exceptional dynamic that shows no sign of fading…

This growing popularity over time has already enabled the 2024 FIGHT AIDS CUP to achieve “record sponsorships and donations for the association. The success of previous editions has strengthened the loyalty of our partners, and new ones have joined us,” reveals Louis Ducruet. A reality synonymous with success for someone passionate about charitable values. “I am delighted that the benefits from the development of this event can support FIGHT AIDS MONACO.”

The captain of the Barbagiuans also highlights his excitement about “sharing magical moments on the field once again, alongside legends of international football.” All united in support of the fight against HIV, which still affected 39 million people worldwide in 2022 (SIDACTION). A major cause close to the Princely Family’s heart…

H.S.H. Princess Stéphanie as Ambassador

Prevent, Support, Accompany… This year, the Principality celebrates the 20th anniversary of FIGHT AIDS MONACO. Over two decades, H.S.H. Princess Stéphanie has dedicated part of her life to the fight against HIV. With determination and commitment, the president and founder of the association continues to lead this awareness campaign, which she initiated in 2004.

Thanks to the quality of the actions carried out (under the aegis of FIGHT AIDS MONACO), the Princess has successfully championed her causes and placed this global fight back at the center of the Principality’s priorities. “We need to constantly remind people that they are not immune,” asserts the sister of Prince Albert II, before continuing. “With advances in research, treatments, and testing, the tools to eradicate the epidemic’s spread are available. We must encourage people to take action.” A dedication that grows stronger as other countries now give less attention to this crucial cause.

This situation needs to be addressed urgently. “It’s essential not to give up because HIV is still present. The FIGHT AIDS CUP is an opportunity to show that Monaco has an association that continues to work on prevention, support, and assistance for those living with the disease. The fight must not wane. On the contrary, it must intensify,” declares H.S.H. Princess Stéphanie firmly.

“I will never thank my son (Louis Ducruet) enough for this wonderful initiative.”

As president of the Monte-Carlo International Circus Festival, H.S.H. Princess Stéphanie is no stranger to the football match between the Barbagiuans and Cirque FC. The traditional gala match existed well before the creation of the FIGHT AIDS CUP…

For over a decade, the team of H.S.H. Prince Albert II faced off against that of the festival’s main actors during their rest day (Monday). This intimate family tradition evolved in 2020 into an exceptional event, a change deemed “necessary” by the Princess, recognizing its potential. “It was time to revive this historic match and pass it on to the younger generation. We needed to embrace new ideas and objectives, and it has been very successful. I am delighted with this development.”

The creation of this event symbolizes Louis Ducruet’s commitment since becoming president of the Barbagiuans of Monaco. A man of conviction and projects, he immediately sought to revitalize this match by attracting (to both teams) several global football legends.

This approach has increased public interest by introducing new, more significant stakes. In 2020, the nephew of Prince Albert II declared: “I wanted to support my mother by raising funds for FIGHT AIDS MONACO. It was important to contribute by using a field I know well—football.”

Four editions later, H.S.H. Princess Stéphanie is thrilled with the benefits the FIGHT AIDS CUP has directly brought to her association. Her gratitude is endless… “It’s a great pride for me to see my son’s dedication to causes close to my heart. His idea was brilliant and lifesaving for FIGHT AIDS MONACO,” says the sovereign’s sister, before continuing. “Beyond the significant financial aid, it shines a regular spotlight on the fight we are leading through a sports-filled, friendly evening. I will never thank Louis enough for this wonderful initiative.”

Over the years, the FIGHT AIDS CUP has continuously evolved. Alongside the “professionalism of its organization, which attracts an ever-growing audience,” H.S.H. Princess Stéphanie is pleased to see the event fit perfectly into the framework of the Monte-Carlo International Circus Festival (upcoming 46th edition), of which she is president. “This evening reflects the values of solidarity that we cherish and aim to convey to spectators each year under the big top. This is why the FIGHT AIDS CUP is an integral part of the festival and its program.”