Stade Louis-II Marks 40 Years with Commemorative Ceremony in Monaco
The iconic stadium, inaugurated by Prince Rainier III, celebrates its anniversary with key figures in attendance.
The Stade Louis-II in Monaco recently commemorated its 40th anniversary with an official ceremony held on February 4, 2025, attended by Prince Albert II and other prominent figures.
This venue, which opened on January 25, 1985, has become an integral part of the Principality’s sports culture.
The construction of the stadium spanned four years, with an estimated cost of 594 million French francs.
It features nine distinctive arches and was the site of AS Monaco's first match against RC Lens, where the first goal was scored by Bernard Genghini from a penalty kick.
The anniversary event took place in the Salon d'Honneur of the stadium, honoring the project's origins that date back to its conception in 1979. Key attendees included Sylvie Bertrand, director of the Stade Louis-II; Dmitri Rybolovlev, president of AS Monaco; Aleksei Fedorychev, president of AS Monaco Basket; and several government officials, such as Isabelle Berro-Amadeï, interim Minister of State.
During the ceremony, the history and significance of the stadium were highlighted, celebrating its vital role in local sports and its contribution to community life.
A commemorative plaque was unveiled and signed by Prince Albert II, symbolizing the heritage of the stadium, which has hosted various sports federations and associations over the decades.
Looking ahead, an immersive exhibition titled "Il était une première fois" is scheduled to launch in April 2025. The exhibition, curated with contributions from scenographer Ahmad Reshad and journalist Gérard Holtz, will showcase significant moments in the stadium’s history through various archival materials, photographs, and posters.
Notably, the exhibition’s theme reflects the numerous records set and events held at the stadium, further amplifying its historical importance.
In addition to the retrospective, a commemorative stamp will be issued on March 18, 2025, for collectors to commemorate the stadium's legacy.
The Stade Louis-II is also undergoing renovations aimed at modernization, with plans for upgrades from 2025 to 2027, which include replacing the iconic yellow seats and enhancing spectator facilities.
Sylvie Bertrand acknowledged that the stadium is a critical part of Monaco’s public infrastructure, stating, "It is the most emblematic building of Monaco, one of the largest public buildings in the Principality."
On the cultural front, the Grimaldi Forum is set to host a theatrical adaptation of Jules Verne's "20,000 Leagues Under the Seas" on March 1 and 2, 2025, featuring a blend of live acting and puppetry.
Meanwhile, a performance of Wagner’s "Tristan and Isolde" Act II is scheduled for March 2, 2025, at the Auditorium Rainier III, showcasing renowned international talents under the direction of Philippe Jordan.
This venue, which opened on January 25, 1985, has become an integral part of the Principality’s sports culture.
The construction of the stadium spanned four years, with an estimated cost of 594 million French francs.
It features nine distinctive arches and was the site of AS Monaco's first match against RC Lens, where the first goal was scored by Bernard Genghini from a penalty kick.
The anniversary event took place in the Salon d'Honneur of the stadium, honoring the project's origins that date back to its conception in 1979. Key attendees included Sylvie Bertrand, director of the Stade Louis-II; Dmitri Rybolovlev, president of AS Monaco; Aleksei Fedorychev, president of AS Monaco Basket; and several government officials, such as Isabelle Berro-Amadeï, interim Minister of State.
During the ceremony, the history and significance of the stadium were highlighted, celebrating its vital role in local sports and its contribution to community life.
A commemorative plaque was unveiled and signed by Prince Albert II, symbolizing the heritage of the stadium, which has hosted various sports federations and associations over the decades.
Looking ahead, an immersive exhibition titled "Il était une première fois" is scheduled to launch in April 2025. The exhibition, curated with contributions from scenographer Ahmad Reshad and journalist Gérard Holtz, will showcase significant moments in the stadium’s history through various archival materials, photographs, and posters.
Notably, the exhibition’s theme reflects the numerous records set and events held at the stadium, further amplifying its historical importance.
In addition to the retrospective, a commemorative stamp will be issued on March 18, 2025, for collectors to commemorate the stadium's legacy.
The Stade Louis-II is also undergoing renovations aimed at modernization, with plans for upgrades from 2025 to 2027, which include replacing the iconic yellow seats and enhancing spectator facilities.
Sylvie Bertrand acknowledged that the stadium is a critical part of Monaco’s public infrastructure, stating, "It is the most emblematic building of Monaco, one of the largest public buildings in the Principality."
On the cultural front, the Grimaldi Forum is set to host a theatrical adaptation of Jules Verne's "20,000 Leagues Under the Seas" on March 1 and 2, 2025, featuring a blend of live acting and puppetry.
Meanwhile, a performance of Wagner’s "Tristan and Isolde" Act II is scheduled for March 2, 2025, at the Auditorium Rainier III, showcasing renowned international talents under the direction of Philippe Jordan.