In Fontvieille, Their Serene Highnesses Albert II of Monaco and Charlene of Monaco, accompanied by Her Serene Highness Princess Gabriella of Monaco, Her Imperial Highness Princess Akiko of Mikasa, and Mr. Gareth Wittstock, attended the opening ceremony of the 14th edition of the Sainte-Dévote Rugby Tournament at Stade Louis-II.

Organized by the Fondation Princesse Charlène de Monaco, with the support of the Fédération Monégasque de Rugby, the annual tournament brings together youth teams from around the world, promoting the values of discipline, teamwork, and inclusion through sport.

A total of 24 teams representing 23 nations are participating in this year’s two-day competition, including delegations from South Africa, Argentina, Japan, the United States, France, and the United Arab Emirates. The 2026 edition marks the first participation of a team from Japan, reflecting the tournament’s expanding international reach.

Princess Akiko of Mikasa, President of the Japan Rugby Football Union and an official guest of the Princely Couple, attended the opening events alongside the princely family. Princess Charlene, who serves as President of the Fédération Monégasque de Rugby, emphasized the broader significance of the tournament.

“Rugby is a remarkable school of life, and the Sainte-Dévote Tournament is a vehicle for peace,” she said. “On the field, young players from diverse cultures discover solidarity, humility, and trust in others. These are values that extend far beyond sport.”

The opening ceremony featured a parade of nations followed by the Monégasque national anthem, after which the first matches were held on the Hereditary Prince Jacques and Princess Gabriella of Monaco pitches.

Earlier in the day, the initiative Rugby for All introduced schoolchildren from across the Principality, as well as young adults with disabilities, to the sport, underscoring the tournament’s commitment to accessibility and social inclusion.