Fight AIDS Cup 2026: football legends united for an essential cause

The Principality of Monaco is once again preparing to come alive with one of the most anticipated sporting and charitable events on its calendar. The Fight AIDS Cup returns on Saturday 24 January at 3:30 pm at the Stade Louis II, as part of the prestigious International Circus Festival of Monte-Carlo. Now in its sixth edition, the gala match promises spectacle, emotion and a strong message of solidarity.

Remaining true to the spirit that has defined it since its creation, the match will once again see the Barbagiuans of Monaco face the Cirque FC, in an atmosphere combining competition, celebration and generosity. This unique sporting event raises funds for Fight AIDS Monaco, the association founded and chaired by H.S.H. Princess Stéphanie, who has been actively involved for over twenty years in the fight against HIV and in supporting those affected.

A line-up of legends for a universal message

Led by Louis Ducruet, President of the Barbagiuans of Monaco and organiser of the event, numerous legends of international football will take to the pitch at Stade Louis II. Among the confirmed names are Andriy Shevchenko, Eden Hazard, Clarence Seedorf, Christian Karembeu, Bafétimbi Gomis and Youri Djorkaeff. An exceptional cast, blending iconic figures with new faces, which underlines the growing prestige of the Fight AIDS Cup.

Originally composed exclusively of former AS Monaco players, the Barbagiuans took a significant step forward in 2025 by opening their ranks to major international stars. A strategic evolution, as explained by Louis Ducruet:
“This was one of our key development goals. We are proud to see the squad growing and the values of the Barbagiuans resonating with players beyond Monaco. The upcoming Fight AIDS Cup will further strengthen our commitment to integrating new members into the Barbagiuans family.”

Fans will have the opportunity to see Eden Hazard, the recently retired Belgian international, making his first-ever appearance in this charity match, alongside Bafétimbi Gomis. Regular participants such as Robert Pirès and Ludovic Giuly will also be present, all playing under the captaincy of Louis Ducruet.

Cirque FC: Italian influence and Shevchenko as captain

For this sixth edition, Cirque FC will showcase a strong Italian influence, featuring several former players who left their mark on Italy’s top championships. This choice aims to strengthen the ties between the International Circus Festival of Monte-Carlo and the Italian public, which has long shown strong support for the Principality’s initiatives promoting essential values.

At the heart of the team will be Andriy Shevchenko, wearing the captain’s armband. Ballon d’Or winner in 2004, UEFA Champions League winner with AC Milan in 2003 and current President of the Ukrainian Football Association, Shevchenko will take part in the Fight AIDS Cup for the first time.
“I was invited by the Princely Family to take part in this major event. It is a real honour to support their work in raising awareness about the fight against HIV and helping people in need,” he said, highlighting the importance of the cause.

A sporting challenge… but above all a human one

While the charitable dimension remains central, the sporting rivalry is very real. After five editions, Cirque FC leads the head-to-head record with four victories, compared to a single win for the Barbagiuans. Determined to reverse the trend, Louis Ducruet is clear about his ambitions:
“We tasted victory in 2022 and it was a fantastic memory. With so many legends on the pitch, the competitive instinct quickly comes back. We will do everything we can to win—and avoid the jokes for another year!”

Yet for both teams, the true objective goes beyond the final score. As Andriy Shevchenko reminds us:
“The real victory is not reflected on the scoreboard, but in the funds raised for a good cause.”

Over one million euros raised for Fight AIDS Monaco

Over the years, the Fight AIDS Cup has become a cornerstone of support for the association. Thanks to this event and other solidarity initiatives, the Barbagiuans have surpassed the symbolic milestone of one million euros donated, becoming Fight AIDS Monaco’s leading donor.

This commitment is praised by Christophe Glasser, Director of Fight AIDS Monaco:
“The Fight AIDS Cup represents far more than a sporting event. It embodies a loyal, sincere commitment—moral, symbolic and human—carried by an entire community. It strengthens our actions and reminds us how collective engagement can have a concrete and lasting impact.”

An event not to be missed

The match will be broadcast live at 3:30 pm on TV Monaco and on TV Monaco’s YouTube channel, allowing a wide audience to follow this solidarity-driven event.

On 24 January, Stade Louis II will be more than just a football stadium—it will be the stage for a powerful message of unity, awareness and action. A prestigious fixture, a strong message and an essential cause at the heart of the Principality.