“We’ve been halted, for sure… I didn’t expect it either,” admitted Pocognoli post-match. Two wins, two draws was the Belgian’s record heading into the showdown against Paris FC. The dynamic was positive, the “mindset was good” in training, following Wednesday’s 5-3 win over Nantes; Les Parisiens’ form has been middling in recent weeks; and Monaco’s home record in 2025 is excellent, with their only defeat under the arches of the Stade Louis II coming against Benfica in early February. Pocognoli’s confidence was well-founded.

But it quickly evaporated as Monaco “ran out of steam” early on against Paris FC. A positive chance saw the home side create two good opportunities in the first 10 minutes as Aleksandr Golovin struck wide before Mohammed Salisu headed at Kevin Trapp in the Paris FC goal. “We had a clear vision of what we wanted to do, and we had intensity, too,” said Pocognoli. But that clarity became blurred, and the intensity disappeared. By half-time, it was the visitors who were in the ascendancy and who would have been disappointed not to go into the break ahead.

Pocognoli denounces a ‘lack of fire’ from Monaco

From a corner, Jean-Philippe Krasso worked a yard and rifled a shot off Philipp Kohn’s post, and just seconds later, Moustapha Mbow headed wide from an excellent position. The break did not provide the reset that Pocognoli wanted, as his changes failed to switch the momentum of the encounter. One of his substitutes, Stanis Idumbo, was instead at fault as Monaco went behind.

The young Belgian, playing in an unfamiliar wing-back role, showed his inexperience, diving in on Maxime Lopez, who easily sidestepped and drove into the box. Unpressured, he picked out Moses Simon, whose scuffed effort went over the diving Kohn. There was little to no reaction. Maghnes Akliouche went close, forcing a strong save from Trapp, but that was the only chance of note in the final 30 minutes, during which it never felt that Monaco ever truly pushed for an equaliser.

“We didn’t create a lot of chances. Beyond the result, in terms of our play, it was insufficient. It wasn’t great against Toulouse either, but we created chances at least […] I think that there was a lack of fire on the pitch,” said Pocognoli. It was quite the contrast to the midweek win over Nantes. Naturally, in this context, Monaco’s strikers struggled, especially Mika Biereth, hooked at the break.

A trip to the Arctic Circle awaits Pocognoli’s men

“It wasn’t a sanction,” ensured Pocognoli. “I think that Mika gave everything in the first half, but there wasn’t the desired impact, and there wasn’t much more in the second half either, in a collective sense.” Whilst there wasn’t really a reaction to going behind against Paris FC, Pocognoli will be expecting to see another side to his team when they travel to the Arctic Circle to face Bodo/Glimt in midweek.

“I will learn a lot about my squad in these moments of defeat and see how they react. It will be interesting to see […] I am learning about my group,” said Pocognoli, who evoked a “lack of responsibility” taken by those on the pitch on Saturday. With the first defeat, the honeymoon period is over for Pocognoli, who must quickly turn this lesson into a reaction in the Champions League. It was a night of firsts on Saturday, and certainly not in a positive sense; a first UCL win of the season next week would show that lessons are indeed being learned and that this new version of Monaco are progressing in a positive direction.

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Photo source: AS Monaco

Now in its third year, the initiative continues to attract strong community interest. Its goal? To give a second life to healthy summer plants that need to be removed as the park transitions into its winter planting season.

Organised by Monaco’s Institution Communale, the donation is part of a wider commitment to sustainability, aiming to reduce waste and promote a circular economy within the Principality.

This upcoming session will be held in front of the park’s salle anniversaire, where municipal gardeners will be on hand to distribute around 100 flowering plants, including begonias and oleanders, along with expert advice on how to care for them at home.

To ensure fairness and accessibility, distribution will be limited to one plant per person.

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Photo credit: Ka’Ron Thompson, Unsplash

According to British writer Oliver Burkeman, author of Four Thousand Weeks: Time Management for Mortals, the whole idea of “getting on top of it all” is a myth. There is no golden future where your inbox is empty, your life admin complete, and your brain as peaceful as a Zen garden. There’s just you, roughly four thousand weeks of existence, and the choice of what really matters.

Burkeman’s work isn’t the usual productivity manual of 5 a.m. alarms and dopamine fuelled hustle. It’s more like philosophical judo, flipping your beliefs about time entirely on their head. And honestly, it’s liberating.

1. You Can’t Do It All, So Stop Trying

Burkeman’s first truth: we are all finite. Once you truly accept you won’t get everything done, life feels lighter. It’s not about cramming more in; it’s about choosing what to neglect.

Try this: write your full to do list, then circle only three things that genuinely matter this week, the ones that, if completed, would actually move life forward. Everything else goes on a “later” list.

You’ve just practised what Burkeman calls creative neglect. It’s not laziness; it’s focus.

2. Pay Yourself First (With Time, Not Money)

Imagine your time like your pay cheque. Most people spend it all before they invest any. Burkeman suggests flipping that: schedule your most important work first, when your attention is sharp, before your day is hijacked by emails, meetings or someone else’s priorities.

Block out 60 to 90 minutes for the thing that matters most, writing, strategy, training, or connecting with your family before the day disappears. Guard that time like a royal flight slot. The rest can fit around it.

3. Procrastination Is Fear Wearing a Fancy Hat

When you find yourself “accidentally” reorganising your inbox instead of starting the big task, ask: what am I avoiding?

Most procrastination isn’t laziness, it’s fear of failure or imperfection. You delay starting because you’d rather not find out you’re not as good as you hope. The antidote? Start badly, on purpose. Do the rough draft, the ugly first rep, the messy brainstorm. Progress beats perfection every single time.

4. The Joy of Missing Out

We’ve been sold FOMO, fear of missing out, as the modern disease. Burkeman says embrace JOMO, the joy of missing out. Every “no” you say to a low value invitation or pointless meeting is a “yes” to something that actually counts.

When you measure success by how aligned your days are with your values, not how full your diary looks, life becomes infinitely calmer and far more productive.

Your Weekly Practice

1. Make two lists:
   • Open List — everything buzzing around your brain.
   • Closed List — the 3 to 5 things you’ll actually do this week.
2. Protect your best hour each day for meaningful work.
3. Notice what you’re avoiding then do five imperfect minutes of it.

Repeat weekly. Watch the noise drop and the meaningful work rise.

Time management isn’t really about time. It’s about attention, courage and choosing what matters.

See also: 

The cure that comes in waves

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The undefeated Monegasque contender will face Ireland’s Sean ‘The Public Nuisance’ McComb in a 10-round contest in the super-lightweight division, with the IBF European title on the line.

The belt, sanctioned by the International Boxing Federation (IBF) – one of boxing’s four major global governing bodies alongside the WBA, WBC and WBO – is a crucial stepping stone for fighters looking to break into the upper echelons of the sport.

Micallef, 26, has been steadily climbing the ranks since turning professional in September 2021, and currently holds an unblemished record of 11 wins, including three by knockout. His opponent, McComb, brings both experience and grit, with 20 wins (5 KOs), two draws, and a reputation for high-pressure, high-volume fighting.

The event is being staged under the banner of Matchroom Boxing, one of the world’s leading promotional outfits, and will be broadcast internationally via streaming platform DAZN.

A defining moment in Micallef’s rise

For Micallef, a victory on home soil would mark a turning point in his career, potentially opening doors to even greater opportunities on the European and world stage.

“This fight means everything to me — representing Monaco at this level, in front of my home crowd, with a title on the line… it’s what I’ve been working toward since day one,” the boxer recently told reporters.

The Salle des Étoiles, known for hosting legendary music and sporting events, will offer an intimate yet electric setting for the high-stakes showdown.

A platform for Monaco boxing

The fight also signifies the growing profile of professional boxing in Monaco, a nation more commonly associated with Formula 1 and tennis, but one that has quietly fostered a rising talent in Micallef.

McComb, a southpaw known for his relentless pace and tactical ring IQ, will present the sternest test of Micallef’s career to date. The Irishman’s resume includes tough opponents across multiple countries, and he will be looking to spoil the party and claim the IBF belt for himself.

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]]> https://monacolife.net/monaco-unveils-2025-e2-coin-honouring-the-marquisate-of-les-baux/ Fri, 31 Oct 2025 11:49:30 +0000 https://monacolife.net/?p=115234 As part of a new commemorative series launched in 2025, the Principality of Monaco is issuing a €2 proof coin dedicated to the historic Marquisate of Les Baux — a symbolic title held by Hereditary Prince Jacques since birth.

The release forms part of a wider initiative marking the 10th anniversary of the Grimaldi Historic Sites of Monaco network, which celebrates the family’s feudal heritage across France and beyond through heritage tourism and cultural promotion.

Following the earlier 2025 release of a coin dedicated to the County of Carladès — a title held by Princess Gabriella — this new issue focuses on Les Baux-de-Provence in the Bouches-du-Rhône region. The territory was granted to the Grimaldi dynasty by King Louis XIII in 1642, specifically to Honoré II for his son Hercule.

The obverse of the coin depicts a general view of the rocky outcrop and ruined medieval fortress of Les Baux-de-Provence. A subtle heraldic background features both the silver-and-red fusily pattern of the Grimaldi arms and a sixteen-pointed silver star, a symbol tied to the legend of the medieval Lords of Baux who claimed descent from Balthazar, one of the Biblical Magi. The family’s motto, “A l’asard Bautezar” — a Provençal phrase meaning “By chance, Balthazar” — is a nod to this storied lineage.

In a symbolic gesture of continuity, Prince Albert II remains the owner of the Sainte-Catherine chapel ruins at the site.

The new coin will be available for purchase starting 4th November through the official website of Monaco’s Museum of Stamps and Coins: mtm-monaco.mc.

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The day-long tournament, however, will not just be about competitive boules. Participants will also be able to enjoy a gourmet meal prepared by a Grand Cordon d’Or chef of French cuisine, and trophies designed by artist Jordane Saget, represented by Galerie Kamil. The event runs from 9:30am to 4:30pm at the club on Avenue Marquet.

Tickets are priced at €150 per person, which includes entry to the tournament, lunch, and all refreshments throughout the day. With limited places available, organisers are urging interested participants to register early through the HelloAsso platform or by contacting the association directly at contact@mld.mc or on 06 40 62 37 77.

Additional donations are welcomed alongside ticket purchases, with French taxpayers eligible for a 66% tax reduction on charitable contributions.

The Monaco Liver Disorder was established in 2011 and is the only Franco-Monégasque association representing all rare liver diseases in children. The charity supports medical research, promotes organ donation awareness, helps improve paediatric hospital services, and provides support to affected families.

Registration is now open for the event, which combines sport and gastronomy in support of cause that affects families across France and Monaco.

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Main photo of the previous pétanque challenge credit: Monaco Liver Disorder 

In an era marked by climate change, biodiversity loss and mounting economic and geopolitical pressures, the upcoming Natural Capital Conference at the Yacht Club de Monaco on 3rd November will place natural capital at the heart of the conversation. The term refers to the stock of natural resources and the services nature provides, and the conference will argue that both its preservation and its proper valuation are essential levers for transforming society and ensuring long‑term resilience.

Integrating science, finance and policy

The organisers emphasise that the transition towards a regenerative economy—one that aligns economic prosperity, social justice and ecosystem restoration—depends equally on scientific advances and economic‑financial tools. Discussions will span from improved understanding of ecosystem dynamics to the practical mechanisms for integrating natural capital into investment portfolios, public policy and conservation strategies.

Global expertise converges in Monaco

The conference will bring together international experts, scientists from natural and economic disciplines, public‑sector institutions and finance professionals. Their aim will be to chart how natural capital can become central to our development models, whether through public policy, conservation strategy or sustainable financing.

Words from the organisers

“The financial institutions and banks have a decisive role to play in supporting the ecological transition, our joining with scientific researchers was obvious,” said Françoise Puzenat, Territory Director at BNP Paribas Monaco. “We are very proud to collaborate with the CSM for three years now on this conference, which allows us to gather in Monaco top‑quality international experts around the idea that natural capital is a true growth lever, while also securing our planet for future generations.”

Dr Nathalie Hilmi, Head of the Environmental Economics Section at the CSM, added: “The resilience of our societies depends on the ability of sustainable finance to redirect our models: moving from an extractive economy to a regenerative economy, where natural capital is recognised as an essential pillar of sustainable development — economic, environmental and social — and where biodiversity preservation determines humanity’s very future.”

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Photo by Monaco Life

]]> https://monacolife.net/princess-charlene-joins-young-monaco-rugby-players-in-georgia/ Thu, 30 Oct 2025 13:02:34 +0000 https://monacolife.net/?p=115251 Princess Charlene of Monaco travelled to Georgia this week to support the Principality’s under-16 national rugby team during an intensive training camp ahead of an upcoming international tournament.

On Wednesday 29th October, the Princess — who serves as President of the Monegasque Rugby Federation — visited the Georgian Rugby Union’s training centre in Martkopi, a facility known for its elite infrastructure. She was accompanied by her brother Gareth Wittstock, General Secretary of the Princess Charlene of Monaco Foundation.

The young Monegasque players are taking part in a series of friendly matches against top-tier Georgian teams as part of their preparation for the prestigious Dubai International Rugby Sevens tournament scheduled for late November.

As part of her visit, Princess Charlene also attended a first aid training session for youth athletes, co-organised by the Georgian Red Cross and the Princess Charlene of Monaco Foundation. The workshop aimed to raise awareness among players about life-saving emergency techniques.

Princess Charlene was welcomed by Natia Loladze, President of the Georgian Red Cross, and Davit Kacharava, President of the Georgian Rugby Union and former national team captain.

The day ended on a high note for the Monaco U16 team, who celebrated two more victories during the camp, bringing their total to four wins and two losses.

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Photo credit: Ana Demetrashvili / Georgian Rugby Union

The Kursk-Root Icon, one of Orthodox Christianity’s most venerated relics, will be available for worship at the church on Avenue de Grande-Bretagne on 3rd November at 6pm.

The icon, which depicts the Virgin Mary, dates back to the 13th century and has been central to Orthodox faith for over 700 years. According to tradition, believers credit it with healing the sick, resolving conflicts, and bestowing divine grace upon the faithful.

The sacred image holds deep historical significant within Russian Orthodox tradition. It was revered by Russian Tsars and the renowned military commander General Kutuzov during the Russian Empire.

Such is the icon’s importance that in Ukraine and Russia, worshippers routinely queue for seven to eight hours for just five seconds before it. Hundreds of thousands of people wait to pay their respects when it visits these countries.

The Orthodox Church of Monaco has extended an invitation to all Christians in the principality to take advantage of this rare opportunity. Church representatives highlighted the timing, noting the current difficulties in Ukraine, and called for unity amongst the Christian community.

The icon will be displayed at St Elena’s Parish, which is part of the Russian Orthodox Church Outside Russia (ROCOR)

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Main photo provided.

The international competition will bring together premium caviar producers and merchants from 20 countries, including Russia, Iran, France, Italy, China and the United States, to compete for top honours in a blind tasting judges by Michelin-starred chefs and gastronomy experts.

The event, founded by caviar specialist Laurent Morin and held under the high patronage of Princess Yasmine Murat, Princess of Pontecorvo, marks a significant step up from its inaugural edition at Saint-Émilion Grand Barrail in October 2024.

How the competition works

Each caviar entry will be evaluated under strictly controlled conditions, with identical temperatures, portions, and unmarked containers to ensure complete impartiality. Two sworn bailiffs will oversee the juggling process, where jury members will asses samples individually without consultation.

The competition features two distinct categories: producers who farm their own fish and create caviar, and merchants who source, refine and sell caviar from various farms. Separate juries will judge each category.

Judges will score entries on appearance, texture, balance and length of flavour on the palate, with results determining the year’s most outstanding caviars.

When it comes to the judging panel, among the notable names are Gérald Passedat from Marseille’s Le Petit Nice, Pascal Garrigues of Monte-Carlo Beach, and Pierre Casiraghi, Vice-President of the Yacht Club. The panel also includes multiple Meilleurs Ouvriers de France (MOF) title holders, world freediving record holder Pierre Frolla, and Christian Garcia, chef to Monaco’s princely palace.

Beyond the competition

The blind tasting, scheduled from 10am to 2pm, represents just part of the day’s festivities. Some 220 guests will enjoy a premium cocktail reception followed by an exclusive ten-hands caviar dinner, where renowned chefs will collaborate on specially created dishes for the occasion.

“Caviar is no longer reserved for an elite few,” said Morin, who has worked in the caviar industry for over 15 years. “Thanks to the creativity of chefs, it’s now regarded in haute cuisine as a full-fledged ingredient, while retaining its aura of rarity.”

The event aims to celebrate caviar’s diversity while providing an international platform for producers, much like the already established competitions for wine and cheese

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Main photo credit: World Caviar Awards