The spirit of Monaco’s football legacy gathered at the Grimaldi Forum this past Sunday, as AS Monaco legends and Louis Ducruet, current president of the Barbagiuans, launched the Sportel Awards with the presentation of a heartfelt new book, Un Prince & des légendes. Though more biography than fiction, the book celebrates a remarkable story, tracing the journey of the Barbagiuans, the charity team founded by Prince Albert II in 1980 to keep playing the game he loved alongside his friends while supporting noble causes. The Barbagiuans will soon mark 45 years on the field.
The launch event featured a lineup of some of AS Monaco’s most iconic former players: Ludovic Giuly, Marco Simone, Alfred Vitalis, Claude Puel, and Andrea Raggi, each there to share stories, sign copies, and reminisce about their time both on the professional pitch and with the Barbagiuans.
“It’s a privilege to have worn the AS Monaco jersey,” Marco Simone shared with the crowd, “and it’s just as meaningful to continue that journey with the Barbagiuans.” The book, Un Prince & des légendes, is filled with personal stories and rare insights from players like Sébastien Squillaci, Jean Petit (who contributed memories before his recent passing), Delio Onnis, and even the legendary Arsène Wenger. Each shared anecdotes that pull back the curtain on a legacy the public has rarely glimpsed.
Louis Ducruet explained that the book offers something unique. “We didn’t want this to feel like just another history book. ASM recently celebrated its centenary with a book of its own, so we took a different approach. Through untold stories from multiple generations, we’ve created something fresh, fun, and true to the charitable spirit of the Barbagiuans,” he noted. Alfred Vitalis chimed in with a laugh, admitting, “There are some stories we maybe should’ve left out!”
Since Ducruet became president in 2020, the Barbagiuans have deepened their commitment to their marquee event, the Fight Aids Cup, an annual charity match held in partnership with Princess Stéphanie’s Cirque FC team to support Fight Aids Monaco. “Louis has elevated the Barbagiuans with this cause,” said Claude Puel. “It’s rare to see a team that so strongly represents its values, and it’s inspiring to see how it keeps growing with each passing year.”
With their anniversary approaching, Ducruet hinted that fans can look forward to “new surprises” for the upcoming Fight Aids Cup in January 2025, ensuring that the Barbagiuans’ story continues with fresh energy, honouring g a legacy built on friendship, charity, and a deep love of the game.
