On Wednesday, 21 May, Monaco’s Stade Louis II hosted the annual Racing Stars Football Cup, a charity event that unites former and current Formula 1 drivers and celebrities. Charles Leclerc, a key figure in the Charles Leclerc Racing Stars Football Cup Monaco scene, officially launched the event but did not participate in the match itself. This event serves as a prominent prelude to the upcoming Monaco Grand Prix, combining sportsmanship with philanthropy.
Ambassador Mika Hakkinen Highlights the Event’s Importance
Finnish two-time F1 world champion Mika Hakkinen took on the role of ambassador for this year’s match. Reflecting on his involvement, Hakkinen expressed his enthusiasm for supporting the cause. He remarked:
“I was honoured and thrilled when Louis Ducruet and his team asked me to be part of this initiative, especially since the event will support two important causes. I strongly encourage everyone to come and be part of the celebration this year.”
His presence underscored the event‘s blend of racing heritage and community impact, enhancing its appeal to fans and participants alike.
Funds Raised Support Two Motorsport-Related Charities
The Racing Stars Football Cup, now celebrating over 30 years, allocates proceeds to two key charities linked closely to motorsport. The first is the Jules Bianchi Association, created to honor the memory of the late F1 driver Jules Bianchi and to provide assistance to the Archet Hospital in Nice. Philippe Bianchi, Jules’ father, highlighted the personal significance of the match in a statement:
“This initiative touches me deeply, as it will bring together several F1 drivers just before the Monaco Grand Prix, which was so important for Jules.”
The second beneficiary is Be Safe Monaco, an organization established by Camille Gottlieb aimed at raising public awareness about the dangers of drinking and driving. Gottlieb emphasized the importance of the event’s platform, saying:
“Having personalities from the world of motorsport involved clearly helps amplify our message. Being part of such an event is a privilege and validates the relevance of our cause.”
Exciting Match Features Top Drivers and Sporting Legends
The football match saw a notable competition between a team of F1 drivers and the Barbagiuans, composed of football and other sports celebrities. Alpine’s Pierre Gasly led the F1 drivers’ team as captain, joined by Williams’ Carlos Sainz, Aston Martin’s Fernando Alonso, and promising rookies Andrea Kimi Antonelli and Oliver Bearman. This mix of experienced champions and emerging talent added an energetic dynamic to the game.
Charity Match Strengthens Community and Motorsport Spirit
The Racing Stars Football Cup remains a highlight in the Monaco GP calendar, connecting racing figures with charitable causes tied to their sport. By drawing attention to critical issues like healthcare support and road safety, the event fosters both community engagement and meaningful social impact. As the Monaco Grand Prix approaches, the cup sets an inspiring tone, emphasizing how sport can unite and give back beyond the race track.
