The FIGHT AIDS CUP celebrates its 5th anniversary

The 5th edition of the FIGHT AIDS CUP is fast approaching!

On Wednesday, January 22 at 5:30 PM, the BARBAGIUANS and the CIRQUE FC will meet at the Stade Louis II for this traditional charity football match, in support of the association created and chaired by H.S.H. Princess Stéphanie, FIGHT AIDS MONACO. A special anniversary edition, a star-studded cast is expected around the princely family to participate in this exceptional event, organized this year in memory of the legendary Jean Petit.

“The Barbagiuans remind me of the times with friends, true friends who loved to get together, loved football, and knew how to create great moments of camaraderie and family.” H.S.H. Prince Albert II, Honorary President of the Barbagiuans de Monaco… in the team’s book (A Prince and Legends).

“With the undeniable success of the first four editions, expectations are high and legitimate, so we must ride the wave to continue progressing and offer the spectators an unforgettable evening.”
Louis Ducruet, President of the Barbagiuans de Monaco, proudly observes the growth of the event over the years, becoming more attractive in every way. But he is not yet satisfied… On January 22, the FIGHT AIDS CUP will celebrate its fifth anniversary, with the success of the previous editions, already looking to the future. And the cake is expected to be substantial…

“This is an important milestone. Five years is no small feat, and the upcoming evening must align with our core values but also open the door to the future by introducing the audience to some new things.”

On the field, some players, many of them young retirees… will appear in both teams. This will reignite the interest of football fans and bring together multiple generations of football icons at the FIGHT AIDS CUP. “The goal is to expand the scope by integrating other football legends into the great family of Barbagiuans.”

Some (very few) have never even been through the club of the Principality… which will bring added value to the codes that have been in place for the past four years (the full list will be revealed in the coming days on the Barbagiuans’ social media).

The FIGHT AIDS CUP in 2025 is dedicated to the memory of Jean Petit… in remembrance of a friend, a legend of Monegasque football, and a true icon of the Barbagiuans (who passed away the morning after the previous edition).

A ceremonial kick-off will be performed by part of his family, with images displayed on the Stade Louis II screens, and a minute of applause… Several elements of the event will pay tribute to this great man, loved by all.

“Jeanot was the perfect embodiment of who we are. The generosity he showed throughout his life will remain in our memories. His smile, his contagious good mood, and especially his loyalty to the Barbagiuans… He was a charismatic figure, beloved by all who had the chance to know him,” says the sovereign’s nephew.

A “Jeannot Petit” trophy will also be awarded by H.S.H. Prince Albert II and Louis Ducruet to the best Barbagiuans player during the post-match private evening.

Patrice Evra, godfather of the FIGHT AIDS CUP 2025
“When I make videos on social media and receive a kind comment thanking me for bringing a smile, that is more important to me than winning the Champions League…”

With a professional career spanning over 20 years, Patrice Evra has seen it all in football. Captain of the French team, winner of the Champions League… the former left-back played for the most prestigious European clubs.

Now retired, the ambassador of the famous slogan “I LOVE THIS GAME” works daily with major global institutions (United Nations, World Health Organization…) supporting their motivations and numerous charitable initiatives.

On January 22, he will return to the Stade Louis II, the place of his first exploits… to express his support for the cause defended by the FIGHT AIDS CUP. As a player for the Barbagiuans, his role will go far beyond just sports.

“I am honored to be the first godfather in the history of this beautiful event. My commitment will match the enthusiasm I feel about participating and returning to Monaco. When sport and a good cause come together, I am never too far away… I have received a lot in my life, and now it’s about giving back a little smile to those who fight daily, through football and my personality.”

President of the Barbagiuans and organizer of the event, Louis Ducruet says he is “very happy” with the presence and meaningful sponsorship of an “immense player, who, like those from the 2003 European adventure, gave me my first great emotions as a supporter.” Revealed in the Principality, where he had his first major successes, Patrice Evra returns with pride and gratitude for his years in Monaco… truly a springboard for the talented young player he once was. “I wrote a beautiful story in Monaco, people often mention Patrice Evra at Manchester United, Juventus, the French team… but they easily forget what I accomplished under that prestigious shirt. Without my breakthrough here and the unwavering support of Prince Albert, my career path would have been different,” he says, honored by the sovereign’s support and the trust he has always shown him.

“Monaco is home, where I really became known to the public. Every time I return, I am received with much affection, for life, I will have a red and white heart, this love for the Principality.”

Another reason why the player who participated in two World Cups with the French team is delighted to join the prestigious Barbagiuans team… so dear to H.S.H. Prince Albert II. “It means a lot, it’s a responsibility. I am very attached to the history and the values upheld by this institution, which symbolizes the generosity of the princely family and the Monegasques.”

A victim of sexual assault at the age of 13 (mentioned in his book), this unfortunate experience has led him to deliver a message of unity and support through his various actions. And this, knowing the significant difficulties (health or otherwise) some face daily. “I was raised with the values of solidarity, kindness towards others. As a young person, I didn’t only experience easy moments, but that didn’t stop me from succeeding. I want to meet and give courage to those who suffer, and this will once again be the case at the FIGHT AIDS CUP.”

New faces
“It’s a privilege to return to Monaco and participate in the FIGHT AIDS CUP.”

French international, 1998 World Cup champion, Christian Karembeu will take part in the event for the first time. In line with its main objectives, the former midfielder with 53 caps is very enthusiastic about contributing to the cause… and transmitting a strong message of solidarity. “It is important to continue finding solutions to improve the lives of all people living with HIV. When I was invited, I accepted without hesitation.”

A player for the CIRQUE FC, Christian Karembeu also looks forward to reliving, on this occasion, great moments in his favorite sport. And this, in the company of former football legends (teammates or opponents) with whom he reached the peak of his sport a few years ago. “Returning to the field always gives me great sensations. It’s a real pleasure for the football enthusiast I am. We will try to repeat the moves we made at the highest level, with the buddies, in a very different context. Football is a big family, a lot of camaraderie… this meeting will allow us to relive past exploits and share our common memories.”

A competitor at heart, the one who ended his professional career in late 2005 is ambitious for the upcoming FIGHT AIDS CUP. “The desire to win, the will to challenge the other… that doesn’t go away. For the players, it’s an opportunity to win a new trophy and, at the same time, share emotions with the people present.”

Not to forget that the goals of the evening go far beyond the pitch. “We will be here to represent H.S.H. Princess Stéphanie and the cause she has been defending for 20 years. It’s about cheering up those who need it most, that’s the whole purpose of this exceptional event.”

A sentiment undoubtedly shared by Christophe Glasser, Director of FIGHT AIDS MONACO. “The Fight AIDS Cup has become, year after year, a key event for the association. This meeting initiated by Louis Ducruet and the Barbagiuans helps raise awareness among a broad audience and mobilize essential funds for our actions. Far more than just a match, it’s a symbol of hope and a fight against discrimination,” he explains, before acknowledging that sport, and particularly football, has an “incredible ability to unite around universal values such as solidarity and self-improvement. By gathering so many legends in Monaco, the FIGHT AIDS CUP sends a wonderful message of inclusion and support for those living with HIV.”

So, see you at the Stade Louis II on Wednesday, January 22, 2025, for the 5th edition of the FIGHT AIDS CUP, which promises to be exceptional.
Kick-off scheduled for 5:30 PM.