Prince Albert II inaugurates the Otoneuro Healthcare Facility and other princely news
Prince Albert II officially cut the ribbon at Otoneuro, a new healthcare facility specialising in the treatment of vertigo and hearing loss, on 6 February.
Located in the Fontvieille district, the facility first opened on 8 January 2024. Accompanied by Christophe Robino, Health Minister, the Prince was welcomed to Otoneuro by Dr. Pierre Lavagna before having a tour of the new facility, which is now home to sophisticated medical equipment and expert teams in the field of Otoneurology.
During the inauguration, Dr. Pierre Lavagna, who is an ear, nose and sinus surgeon and expert in treating balance and hearing issues, stated that he felt lucky to be born in a country whose sovereigns have made science and medicine one of their greatest priorities.
Prince Albert II signals the start of the 26th Monte-Carlo Historic Rally Finals
Prince Albert II signalled the start of the final stage of the 26th Historic Monte-Carlo Rally on the Quai Albert I on Tuesday 6 February.
Before the competitors took their start, the Sovereign Prince drove a lap of the F1 Grand Prix circuit behind the wheel of a magnificent Deutsch Bonnet Coach Frua, a replica of the car driven by his father, Prince Rainier III, during the 1953 Tour de France Automobile. The car, purchased in 2013, was completely restored by the teams at the Prince’s Car Collection.
Prince Albert II pays his Final Respects to ASM Legend, Jean Petit
Jean Petit, the legendary footballer and ASM coach, was laid to rest during a funeral at Monaco’s Cathedral. “Jeannot” passed away on 23 January at the age of 74. The funeral took place in the presence of Prince Albert II and several personalities from the football world, including Didier Deschamps, Claude Puel and Arsène Wenger.
During the ASM’s match against Le Havre, the Louis II stadium paid a heartfelt tribute to Jean Petit, with Prince Albert II in attendance, on Sunday 4 February. Fans held up signs paying tribute to Jean Petit and the players donned jerseys printed with the name: “Petit”.
Prince Albert Foundation II announces Scholarship Program for Spain’s IE University
The Prince Albert II of Monaco Foundation recently announced a new scholarship program aimed at fostering the next generation of environmental trailblazers through a new collaboration with Spain’s IE University, recognised as one of the first carbon neutral universities in Europe.
Two new scholarships will be offered annually for the IE University, which has become a popular choice amongst students from Monaco. The scholarships are aimed at those accepted into full-time Master’s programs and will cover up to 65% of tuition expenses. Candidates are expected to have outstanding academic records and a dedication to building a greener future. The selection committee is composed of members from the Prince Albert II of Monaco Foundation, the IE Foundation and the IE Sustainability Office.
“Cultural change begins first with an internal change – in our behaviour, values, and beliefs, and this creates to a chain of change in which we transform the society and around us, which leads to a tangible change in the world. Thus, it is with great pride that we can now say that IE University is one of the first ‘carbon neutral’ universities in Europe,” said Isabela del Alcázar, Global Head of Sustainability at IE University.
Prince Albert II sends message of support to King Charles III
After King Charles III made a difficult announcement concerning his cancer diagnosis, Prince Albert II offered a heartfelt message of support. The Prince and the British monarch share a passion for environmental conservation and have enjoyed a friendship spanning many years.
“Your Majesty, In these difficult times, my entire family would like to express our full support to you. Your determination, your courage and your frankness have always been a source of inspiration. I am convinced that you will demonstrate the same bravery in this ordeal. My family and the people of Monaco join me in sending you, the Royal Family and your loved ones our warmest thoughts and prayers,” stated Prince Albert II.
Prince Albert II dispatches a Message to the President of Chile during Deadly Wildfires
The death toll from forest fires in the Valparaíso region of Chile has surpassed 130 people. Prince Albert II dispatched a letter of solidarity and condolences to President Gabriel Boric and the people of Chile on behalf of the Principality.
“Mr. President,
Deeply shocked by the persistence of the forest fires in the centre and south of your country and their deadly consequences on your people and nature, I would like to express my deepest condolences to the victims. My Family and the people of Monaco join me in addressing our thoughts and prayers to the people affected by this tragedy. I wish to convey my deepest sympathy to the emergency services who are struggling to contain the fires, and those who put their own lives in danger to help communities in need. Be assured, Mr. President, of our sense of profound solidarity in these difficult times,” stated Prince Albert II.
‘State of Grace’ Optical Sculpture Exhibition in the Heart of Monaco
Artist Marcos Marin has created an optical art journey through the legacy of Princess Grace and Prince Rainier III in the Jardins des Boulingrins. The Brazilian sculptor, who lives in Monaco, gained notoriety when he exhibited a portrait of Grace Kelly at the Art Basel Gallery in Switzerland. The piece was quickly acquired by the New National Museum of Monaco before being installed at the Princess Grace Hospital in December 2020.
The State of Grace exhibition includes optical sculptures of Audrey Hepburn, Marilyn Monroe, and Elizabeth Taylor, followed by sculptures of Prince Albert II, Princess Charlene, Prince Jacques and Princess Gabriella. A focal point of the exhibition is a heart-shaped portrait of Prince Rainier III and Princess Grace, installed in front of the Place du Casino.
