Just days before the start of the prestigious Monaco Grand Prix, Stade Louis-II once again came alive with football, entertainment, and solidarity during the second edition of the Racing Stars Football Cup. Organized by the Barbagiuans de Monaco, this now unmissable event provided the perfect launch to the most anticipated week of the year in the Principality.
Facing the Nazionale Piloti, the drivers’ team led by captain Pierre Gasly, the Barbagiuans delivered a true footballing spectacle in front of a packed crowd gathered to witness this unique event combining sport, celebrity, and charitable commitment.
Alongside Louis Ducruet, President of the Barbagiuans and organizer of the event, a host of international personalities answered the call. Brazilian legend Ronaldinho headlined the star-studded lineup, joined by Nikos Aliagas, Paul de Saint Sernin, Paul Mirabel, Ludovic Giuly, Tibo InShape, and Ricky Whittle. All proudly wore the Barbagiuans de Monaco colors for this exceptional match.
On the opposite side, the Nazionale Piloti could rely on several prominent figures from the world of motorsport, including Pierre Gasly, Carlos Sainz, Isack Hadjar, and Felipe Massa. Young prodigy Kimi Antonelli was also present to take part in the festivities and support the event.
Although the Nazionale Piloti featured football icons such as Leonardo Bonucci and Clarence Seedorf, the experience and collective quality of the Barbagiuans quickly made the difference. Led by players including Ludovic Giuly, Sébastien Squillaci, Gaël Givet, Flavio Roma, Olivier Veigneau, and Valère Germain, the Monégasque side took control of the match from the opening minutes.
More clinical and better organized, the Barbagiuans rapidly built a commanding lead and went into halftime with a comfortable 4–1 advantage. Adding to the success of the evening, Louis Ducruet also found the back of the net, much to the delight of the Stade Louis-II crowd.
Halftime brought another highlight as DJ Yann Muller, also a member of the Barbagiuans squad, energized the stadium with a highly acclaimed set, turning the break into a genuine celebration filled with music and conviviality.
After the restart, head coach Marco Simone made numerous substitutions to ensure that all participants could enjoy the occasion. GregMMA, Tibo InShape, and several other personalities also took to the pitch during the match.
The Nazionale Piloti showed great spirit by reducing the deficit to 4–2, but the Barbagiuans soon regained control and eventually secured a convincing 6–2 victory to claim the second Racing Stars Football Cup title.
Among the many memorable moments of the evening, Ronaldinho’s presence undoubtedly stood out. Having travelled especially to the Principality for the occasion, the 2005 Ballon d’Or winner played the entire first half, nearly forty minutes of action. The Brazilian once again showcased his extraordinary class, technique, and magic on the ball, delighting the Monaco crowd with several trademark moments of brilliance. His appearance has already become part of the history of both the Barbagiuans and the event itself.
Beyond the sporting spectacle, the Racing Stars Football Cup once again fulfilled its charitable mission. Funds raised during the event will support Mercy Ships and Les Soins de l’Espoir, the two charities selected this year by the Barbagiuans de Monaco to help further their work assisting those most in need.
Following the match, Louis Ducruet expressed his satisfaction:
“We are extremely pleased with this second edition. Everything came together perfectly: a full stadium, drivers who embraced the occasion with tremendous generosity, personalities and sporting legends who were delighted to participate, and, of course, the public, who created a fantastic atmosphere. It is a great source of pride for the Barbagiuans to open Monaco Grand Prix week with an event like this and to continue promoting our values of sharing, solidarity, and togetherness.”
Monaco Grand Prix week is officially underway…
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