The FIGHT AIDS CUP Returns to Stade Louis II for its Sixth Edition

One of Monaco’s most emblematic sporting and charitable events will return on Saturday 24 January at 15:30, as the FIGHT AIDS CUP takes place for its sixth edition at Stade Louis II, within the framework of the Monte-Carlo International Circus Festival.

Organised by the Barbagiuans of Monaco, the match has become a fixture in the Principality’s calendar, combining football, public engagement and charitable commitment. As in previous years, the Barbagiuans will face Cirque FC in a match that brings together sporting excellence, festive spirit and a shared cause: support for FIGHT AIDS MONACO, the association founded and chaired by H.S.H. Princess Stéphanie, which has been actively engaged in the fight against HIV for more than two decades.

International football legends on the pitch

This sixth edition will once again feature an exceptional line-up of former international players. Among those expected to take part are Eden Hazard, Clarence Seedorf, Christian Karembeu, Youri Djorkaeff, Bafétimbi Gomis and Robert Pirès, alongside regular participants Ludovic Giuly and Louis Ducruet, President and captain of the Barbagiuans of Monaco.

The 2026 edition will mark the first appearance of Eden Hazard in the FIGHT AIDS CUP, following his recent retirement from professional football, further strengthening the event’s international profile.

Originally composed of former AS Monaco players, the Barbagiuans have progressively expanded their identity to welcome legendary players from across the global football community — a development that has reinforced the reach and impact of the initiative.

Cirque FC led by Andriy Shevchenko

For this edition, Cirque FC will feature a strong Italian influence, reflecting the close ties between the Monte-Carlo International Circus Festival and the Italian public. The team will be captained by Andriy Shevchenko, Ballon d’Or winner in 2004 and President of the Ukrainian Football Association, who will be taking part in the event for the first time.

His participation underscores the international resonance of the FIGHT AIDS CUP and its ability to unite sporting figures around a shared humanitarian cause.

Sporting rivalry and charitable impact

Beyond the festive atmosphere, the sporting challenge remains very real. After five editions, Cirque FC leads the head-to-head record with four victories, while the Barbagiuans will be aiming to restore balance following their memorable win in 2022.

Since its creation, the FIGHT AIDS CUP has generated over one million euros in donations for FIGHT AIDS MONACO, making the Barbagiuans the association’s leading donor. The initiative plays a vital role in supporting prevention, awareness and assistance programmes, both locally and internationally.

Broadcast and public access

The match will be broadcast live on TV MONACO and on the broadcaster’s official YouTube channel, allowing a wider audience to follow the event and its message.

On 24 January, Stade Louis II will once again host an event where football goes beyond competition — serving as a vehicle for solidarity, shared values and collective action, in keeping with Monaco’s commitment to social responsibility and humanitarian engagement.