For four decades, Stade Louis II has stood as a defining landmark in Monaco, hosting world-class sporting events, concerts, and community gatherings. Inaugurated on January 25, 1985, by Prince Rainier III, its distinctive arches have become a familiar sight in the Monegasque skyline. Now, as the stadium celebrates its 40th anniversary, a series of events will pay tribute to its rich history and lasting impact.
A Ceremony Honouring the Stadium’s Origins
The celebrations will kick off on February 4 with a formal ceremony in the Salon d’Honneur at Stade Louis II. This event will take a deep dive into the stadium’s early days, from its conception and construction to its grand opening. Key figures involved in its development will be in attendance, reflecting on the role the venue has played in shaping Monaco’s sporting and cultural scene.
A Journey Through Four Decades of Memorable Events
Beyond its striking architecture, Stade Louis II has been a stage for historic football matches, world records, concerts, and championship bouts. To honor this legacy, an immersive exhibition titled “Il était une première fois” (“Once Upon a First Time”) will be unveiled in April 2025.
This exhibition, held in the newly renovated interior pedestrian street, will highlight the “firsts” that shaped the stadium’s legacy—its first football match, first world record, first boxing gala, first concert, and more. Featuring an extensive collection of archival photos, posters, and memorabilia, the display will offer visitors a chance to relive these defining moments.
To bring this retrospective to life, the stadium has enlisted scenographer Ahmad Reshad, an alumnus of the École Supérieure d’Arts Plastiques, and exhibition curator Gérard Holtz, a well-known sports journalist.
A Collector’s Tribute: The 40th Anniversary Stamp
No major milestone would be complete without a commemorative stamp. On March 18, 2025, Monaco will release a special edition 40th-anniversary stamp honouring Stade Louis II—a perfect keepsake for stamp collectors and sports enthusiasts alike.
As this iconic venue celebrates 40 years, these events will serve as a reminder of its enduring significance—not just as a sports arena, but as a cultural and historical landmark in the heart of Monaco.
