"Clearly, it's a must-see!"

What does it mean for Monaco to host the grand departure of La Vuelta 2026?

It's a very important event for us, as last year, over 17 million viewers followed this grand departure, but also on social media. It's a way of showcasing the Casino and our establishments to tens of millions of people. It represents an excellent promotional vector for the SBM and for Monaco in general.

What makes this departure different from other editions of La Vuelta?

It's quite unique! The riders will set off from inside one of the world's most famous casinos, the Casino de Monte-Carlo, on this iconic square which is, for Monaco, what Times Square is to New York.

And then the following day, the individual time trial will also take place there, before the grand departure on Sunday from another iconic location in the Principality, the Place du Palais. In my view, this has never been seen before in a cycling tour.

What motivated the SBM to partner with this grand departure of La Vuelta?

We have a real historical tradition at the SBM; it's in the DNA of Monte Carlo Société des Bains de Mer to support major sporting events in the Principality. We were involved in the creation of the Monaco Grand Prix in 1929, and of course the Monte Carlo Rally. We own the Monte-Carlo Country Club where the international tennis tournament (Rolex Monte-Carlo Masters) takes place. And there has been a real tradition since 1920, when Prince Albert I asked us to support a cycling tour starting from Monaco. 

The SBM is delighted to be working alongside the Prince's Government in Team Monaco to help ensure, all together, that this event is a great success for the country’s image.

How does the sponsorship of the grand departure of La Vuelta 2026 fit into the SBM and Monaco's international standing strategy?

It's an international event, one of the world's greatest cycling tours. And so, obviously, capturing attention, demonstrating that we are a place that can be a fantastic showcase for major sporting events, while also showcasing our ability to host these major events, is wonderful.

And it's somewhat an illustration of Prince Rainier III’s philosophy, who said that you don’t need to be a big country to have big dreams, nor do you need a large population to make them come true. I think we are going to achieve a truly beautiful historical dream for Monaco here.

What would you say to invite spectators to come to Monaco for this event? 

Coming to Monaco on 22 and 23 August, to witness both the individual time trial at Place du Casino and the following day, the departure from Place du Palais, is an exceptional experience. Within a 2 km² area, you will have the opportunity to enjoy the finest hotels, the finest restaurants, the best nightlife in the world, all whilst watching one of the world's greatest sporting events unfold before your very eyes. Clearly, it's a must-see!