If you happened to miss anything, allow me to recount the most vivid and emotional moments of this summer, personal and significant to me. The radiance of luxury, inseparably linked with sport, takes on new meaning in this issue of our magazine. It is often said that “sport is life in fast-forward,” and this truth feels more relevant than ever today. Let us begin by revisiting the highlights of our sporting season, where the boundaries of resilience and human spirit were pushed to their limits.
GP Formula 1 and Charles Leclerc—a combination of speed, adrenaline, and the pinnacle of engineering prowess. As the legendary Ayrton Senna once said, “Victory is not the end; it is the beginning of the next journey.” These words capture the essence of sport, where every triumph is merely the starting line for new achievements. Leclerc gave H.S.H. Prince Albert II the most precious gift by securing Monaco’s first Grand Prix victory since Louis Chiron in 1931—a triumph steeped in history and significance. This victory brought tears of joy to all of Monte Carlo—a moment of pure elation that united the Principality and its people in celebration.
Next, we were treated to the unparalleled UEFA 2024, with its dramas, triumphs, and those tense yet dearly cherished penalties.
Cristiano Ronaldo—a personification of talent, determination, and sheer opulence. The highs and lows of this great athlete captivate us, and his play continues to inspire millions. The unforgettable moment when a young boy ran onto the field to take a photo with Ronaldo will forever remain in our hearts. It was a moment of a dream come true, where sport became a bridge between generations. Such moments make us empathetic and enrich our souls.
Kylian Mbappé, another name that commands admiration. His play, with his nose protected by a mask, only underscores the resilience and courage so characteristic of great athletes. Mbappé shows us that even in the face of adversity, a true champion never gives up.
For the first time, Georgia shone on the world sporting stage. The joy and elation that swept across the country as their athletes rose to global prominence were nothing short of epic. These moments prove that dreams can come true, provided one fights for them.
Ukraine—a nation forever brave and talented on any field. Their spirit and passion for victory inspire us, reminding us that in sport, there is no room for defeat—only lessons and new horizons.
This season has indeed been rich in grand and historic events, each becoming a milestone in the annals of world sport. The brightest highlight of this summer, undoubtedly, was the opening of the Olympic Games in Paris—the city of light and culture. A celebration that epitomizes the spirit of humanity, the unity of nations, and the pursuit of the highest achievements. The ceremony, set against the majestic Parisian backdrop, became a symbol of the ideals of harmony and global fraternity long associated with the Olympic movement.
And another dream was realized this season: the brilliant, witty, and grandiose tennis player who had long pursued this Olympic gold—almost 20 years! Bravo, Novak Djokovic!
In Paris, history, literature, fashion, politics, and pop culture were woven into a single tapestry. The opening of the Olympics created quite a stir, with many pondering its symbols and meanings: liberté, égalité, fraternité, festivité, obscurité. Olympism is not just about sport; it is about culture. There are nations where culture teaches fear of the beast within, binding it with prohibitions, punishments, and, more broadly, fear. And then there is France, with its humanism that is, at its core, a belief in the best within humanity. There are countries where fear prevails. But France is about fearlessness. This year, the great French Republic showcased to the world a celebration of free people—free and fearless.
Yet, in the shadow of this grand celebration lies a somber truth. There is an ancient rule that wars should cease during the Olympic Games, as a tribute to peace and in respect for those striving to surpass themselves. Yet this time, the rule was broken, the silence of peace shattered by the drums of war. The Games, once a beacon of unity, now stand in stark contrast to the conflicts that rage on. And so, we await the winter, when perhaps humanity will once again have the chance to pause, reflect, and feel that very spirit of unity that sport grants us.
For, as Hemingway once said, “A man can be destroyed, but not defeated.” We hope that the time will come when each of us will remember these words and reach out for peace, just as an athlete reaches out for victory. Let this be a reminder that in a world divided by strife, sport remains a powerful force for good—a symbol of what we can achieve when we come together, not as nations at war, but as a global community striving for greatness.
And may the sounds of drones and guns be replaced by music. Let us hope that we will be co-authors of that melody.
