The Louis II Stadium, the temple of monegasque sport

If Monaco is internationally known in the sports world it is especially famous for its extremely famous Formula 1 Grand Prix in the heart of the Principality streets. However, all year long, the heart of the monegasque sport is located in the Fontvieille neighborhood where the atypical Louis II Stadium can be found. The building, which has a capacity of 18523 seats (football version) was inaugurated on the 25th of January 1985 by Prince Rainier III. This multi-sports complex takes its name from Prince Louis II Of Monaco, who built the old stadium in 1939. Its arches are easily recognizable, as well as its running track which is home every year to the Herculis meeting, an unmissable meeting for running champions. Nearly 40 years after its construction, the stadium has started to undergo long modernization works that should spread over a period of 10 years.

A brand new basketball court

The stadium Louis II keeps it’s old fashioned charm, but is no longer within the modern standards especially because of its resident, the AS Monaco football team. Its supporters campaign for a deep refreshing : restoration of arches, seating and amenity areas such as dressing rooms, refreshment stands, painting, etc.. Some requests that should come to fruition in the next few years. The basketball example proves that the building still has beautiful days ahead. For a few years, the Roca Team has been figured among the best teams of Europe in the prestigious Euroleague. The Gaston-Maurice room is located under the football field has been entirely redone in 2022 in front of an aesthetic gem. Finally, the nautical center and its olympic pool have also undergone heavy lifting in order to modernize it.

The dream of a new stadium

The football aficionados are dreaming about it but it seems impossible to build a new football stadium. The destruction and reconstruction of the Louis II Stadium has been considered but would cause some insurmountable logistical difficulties. Currently more than 30 sports associations can be found within the walls of the stadium, making the multiple relocalisation complex even in a limited time. In addition to the sportive activities, the building also hosts a private English speaking university, the International University of Monaco (IUM). The Louis II stadium is a lively place 365 days a year, a stadium like no other. An innovative and atypical infrastructure, just like Monaco itself, which is set to evolve into a modern facility in the near future.