www.seensportmagazine.com Issue No. 7
GAﾃ記 FICKOU The brightest young star in french rugby CLAUDIO RANIERI // AS MONACO // SERGEY KOVALEV // NY YANKEES // PSG // FORMULA 1
ISSU
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may 2
PORTFOLIO 04
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New York Yankees New York photographer, Rob Tringali documents the highs and lows of a frustrating 2012 campaign. Paris St Germain A portfolio of some of the best images captured during PSG’s memorable championship winning season PSG Ultras A closer look at the rift between the PSG Ultras and the Qatari owners that continues to tear the Parisian club apart.
FEATURES 18
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Gaël Fickou We reflect on the massive impact that the young rugby prodigy Gaël Fickou has had on French rugby in his first season in the Top 14. AS Monaco A captavating look at the re-emergence of AS Monaco from Ligue 2 to the top tier of French football.
EDITORIAL 92
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Samba Football Back in Vogue Can Luis Felipe Scolari inspire ‘The Canarinha’ to yet another famous victory in the Confederations Cup?
This issue of SEEN Sport Magazine is fantastic photo shoots and has a very
The cover story for our Summer issue i to become a household name and po Toulousain centre Gaël Fickou discuss his aspirations for the future and going
The return to prominence of AS Mon world. We were invited to chat exclus and witness the revival taking place a Rouge et Blanche set their sights on b
We pick the best photos taken durin by contributor, Eoin Mundow who ca and the brilliance of majestic Zlatan look at the volatile relationship betwee hierarchy.
Traveling further a field we have som from around the world including a stu York Yankees 2012 World Series camp Cup due to take place in Brazil this Su to shoot Formula One and finally we Sergey Kovalev, the most avoided figh
As always we would like to thank ev exciting to work on, we hope you enjo
SEEN Spo
EDITOR Karen Reid | editor@seensportmagazine.com | FEATURES EDITOR
WORDS Eoin Mundow, Ryan Colley | PHOTOGRAPHY
UE 7
2013
s packed full of wonderful interviews, French flavour.
INTERVIEWS 26
Gaël Fickou Meet the 19 year-old centre who is taking French rugby by storm and looks set to become a global star.
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Claudio Ranieri Back in the big time, the AS Monaco Manager discusses “The Project” and his ambiton to develop a team of champions.
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Emir Bajrami AS Monaco midfielder talks about life at the Ligue 2 champions and looks forward to facing fellow Swede Zlatan Ibrahimovic next seaon.
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Sergey Kovalev Having overcome a tragedy in the ring. Boxing’s most avoided fighter is back with a vengeancenext seaon.
is French rugby’s newest star, destined ossibly rugby’s next superstar. Stade ses his first season as a senior player, g head to head with the All Blacks.
naco has made headlines around the sively with their coach Claudio Ranieri at the La Turbie training centre as “Les becoming Europe’s best team.
ng Paris Saint Germain’s epic season aptured the debut of David Beckham, Ibrahimovich. We also took a closer en infamous PSG Ultras and the clubs
me engaging features and interviews unning portfolio documenting the New paign, a preview of the Confederations ummer, the low down on what it’s like met Russian light heavyweight Boxer hter in the world.
veryone who has made this issue so oy iit as much as we did!
ort Team
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SPOTLIGHT 86
Jurgen Tap - Shooting Formula One Playboys, pit girls & champagne? An insight into life behind the lens on the Formula 1 circuit.
TRAVEL 100
Monaco A portflio of images from the most glamourous sports destination in the world.
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R Eoin Mundow | editorial@seensportmagazine.com | DESIGNER Karen Reid
Y Eoin Mundow, Jurgen Tap, Presse Sports, Rob Tringali
Cover: Gaël Fickou Photo by Eoin Mundow
PORTFOLIO
NEW YORK YANKEES
The New York Yankees are one of America’s most iconic sport brands. Their defeat in the semi-finals of the world series last season to the Detroit Tigers was a humbling experience and noone felt the backlash of the publics anger more than the controversial superstar Alex A-Rod Rodriguez. This season the expectations of the fans and media are at an all time low. Top stars such as Derek Jeter, Mark Teixeira, Curtis Granderson and A-Rod have all been missing from the squad through injury, whilst several key players including Nick Swisher and Russell Martin have now departed. The Yankees however are not a team to rest on their laurels and this season they have bounced back and against the odds they are on top of the American League East winning 19 out of 19 matches thanks to the fine form of new stars such as left-handed pitcher Vidal Nuno and the best second baseman in baseball and future hall of fame 30-year-old Robinson Cano. General manager Brian Cashman stands defiant and has total confidence that his team can come back stronger this season. “We've made a lot of enemies the last 20 years. People want to take advantage if we're down. Our job is to say we're not down. Our job is to prove we're not down. Our job is to find a way and we expect to do that." We take a look back at some of the iconic images shot by New York based photographer and baseball enthusiast Rob Tringali that encapsulated the mood and spirit of the Yankees disappointing 2012 season.
Derek Jeter #2 of the New York Yankees looks on during the game against the Boston Red Sox at Yankee Stadium in the Bronx borough of Manhattan. 27/07/12.
06 | SEEN Sport Magazine
Robinson Cano #24 returns to the dugout during the game against the Boston Red Sox at Yankee Stadium, Manhattan. 27/07/12.
SEEN Sport Magazine | 07
Members of the New York Yankees stand for the National Anthem prior to the start of Game One of the American League Championship Series against the Detroit Tigers. Yankee Stadium. 13/10/12
(Top) Derek Jeter #2 of the New York Yankees kneels down at the on-deck circle before his at-bat during the game against the Baltimore Orioles at Oriole Park. Baltimore, Maryland. 14/05/12. (Right) Curtis Granderson #14 of the New York Yankees looks on during the game against the Baltimore Orioles at Oriole Park. Baltimore, Maryland. 14/05/12.
10 | SEEN Sport Magazine
Alex Rodriguez #13 of the New York Yankees rounds the bases after hitting a home run during the game against the Boston Red Sox at Fenway Park in Boston, Massachusetts. 20/04/12.
Ivan Nova #47 of the New York Yankees pitches during the game against the Boston Red Sox. Fenway Park, Boston, Massachusetts. 20/04/12.
FEATURE
GAﾃ記 FICKOU
Text, Interview & Photos by Eoin Mundow
GAËL FICKOU Every sport needs a new icon; a new star to move their chosen sport forward. With French rugby floundering, following a miserable Six Nations, Gaël Fickou ticks all the right boxes. Good looking, well mannered, supremely talented and grounded, he has all the attributes to become the marketing man’s dream leading up to the Rugby World Cup in 2016. The big question is can he make it?
Gaël Fickou represents the future of French rugby. Blessed with
hand just what the young centre was capable of and spoke
a wonderful mixture of speed, guile and maturity, the 19-year-old
in glowing terms following his team’s defeat. “He’s the next
Stade Toulousain centre was propelled into the spotlight this
Wesley Fofana, isn’t he?” “He looks fantastic. He’s big, he’s
season after his match winning performance against Leicester
rangy, he’s going to fill out further and he’s got good accelera-
Tigers in the Heineken Cup.
tion. He’s certainly one to watch.”
Having played only a handful of senior games in the Top 14,
With all the adulation, predictably there came a certain amount
Fickou lit up the Stade Municipal in Toulouse on his European
of skepticism from some sections of the foreign media. France
debut, scoring a wonderful opportunistic try that belied his
has managed to produce one fantastic centre after another,
years and more impressively, he defended with such vigour
so the emergence of yet another prolific talent from the highly
that he rendered the attacking prowess of the much-heralded
acclaimed National Rugby Centre (CNR) in Marcoussis is no sur-
England International Manu Tuilagi impotent.
prise. One English magazine went as far as making the bizarre
Following his scintillating showing the young centre from the
analogy that Fickou faces the very real possibility of becoming
Cote D’Azur was quickly ordained as the most promising rugby
just another failed prodigy like the much troubled Danny Cipriani.
player of his generation.
Not since Frederic Michalak burst onto the scene at the turn of the millennium has there been such a fuss made over a French
The French media cooed and even a few English journalists
prospect. Back then rugby was going through a transformation,
and former players stuck their necks on the line, lavishing him
breaking free of the cash starved amateur days and flourishing,
with high praise. Leicester’s Toby Flood had witnessed first
following the birth of the commercial success of Max Guazzini’s
20 | SEEN Sport Magazine
homoerotic “Gods of the Stadium” calender. Suddenly Michalak
In the summer of 2012 the stage was set for him to make a big
and his Stade Toulousain team mates Vincent Clerc and
impression in the Top 14. However, with his first team chances
Clement Poitrenaud were transformed into the poster boys of
at Toulon increasingly limited, following the signing of Maxime
French society.
Mermoz from Perpignan, he understood that if he wanted to make the transition from the espoirs to the senior game there
Fickou however appears to a very different character. At 6 foot
was only one choice - to leave Toulon. Having garnered the
3 and weighing just over fourteen stone, he has all the physi-
attention of a host of clubs, the nineteen-year-old decided to
cal attributes required to excel in his chosen field and cuts an
leave his hometown, family and friends and take up a new chal-
imposing figure. It quickly becomes apparent during the first of
lenge with French champions, Stade Toulousain. Veteran coach
our many meetings over the course of the season that despite
Guy Noves had long been an admirer of Fickou and had no
his towering exterior he is quite shy. Meticulously polite and
hesitation in offering him the platform to shine and the opportu-
well mannered, he is one of seven siblings and his family are
nity to play first team rugby. Renowned for his enthusiasm and
never far from his mind.
his gift for inspiring and guiding young players, Noves and his
During our photo shoot he asks if he can send a picture to his
assistant, former French international Jean- Baptiste Ellisalde,
mother to show her what he’s up to. Of course I oblige and he
have played a pivotal role in helping the precocious young
appears to be genuinely happy that his loved ones can share
talent reach his potential this season. Since arriving in the medi-
in his success. He is very laid back and harbours no aspirations
eval city his rugby career has flourished.
to become a sex symbol like his predecessors. Whilst he is enjoying the attention of the fans and media, his sole focus is
His agent is also a constant presence in the teenager’s life.
to become the best centre in french rugby.
He is very hands on in all aspects of the young players career
It’s safe to say that there is very little chance of seeing the bash-
including dealing with the media, sponsorship opportunities
ful teenager strutting around the pink city with a transgender
and contract negotiations. He acts as friend, confidant and
girlfriend or dressed as the wrestler Gold Dust in a full black
protector to Fickou and their relationship resembles that of an
cat suit and going head to head with a double decker bus like
older brother shielding his younger sibling from the transition of
certain former England prodigy.
waving goodbye to adolescence and facing the trials and tribulations of adulthood. I’m told by his agent that the it’s important
Like so many young kids growing up in the Cote D’Azur he
not to overexpose Gaël in the media, his still very young and
supported Marseille and idolised Zinedine Zidane. However
besides his press obligations with the club his sole focus is to
the lure to play rugby was greater than his love of soccer. He
develop as an athlete and not to become sidetracked by all the
became seduced by the integrity and founding principles of
hype surrounding him.
rugby “the valour, combat and camaraderie” between team mates. Along with his close friends he enjoyed the physical
As the season has progressed Fickou has grown in confidence
demands and competitiveness of the sport and at ten years old
and in stature. Toulouse may not be the top team in France
he joined his local team US Seynoise in La Seyne-sur-Mer. At
or Europe anymore, but the experience he has gained in his
sixteen having caught the attention of Racing Club Toulon, he
first year in the Top 14 has been invaluable. The former captain
was snapped up and became a valued member of their highly
of the Toulon junior team, has stayed focused and impressed
regarded rugby academy. As his meteoric rise continued, he
many by scoring some eye catching tries and looks like the
represented his country at the under 18’s world championship
natural successor to outgoing stalwart Yannick Jauzion. Along
in Madrid and his stunning try against Ireland quickly became
with all the positive energy he has received in the last twelve
a You Tube highlight amongst ardent French rugby fanatics.
months, he has also had to come to terms with the negative
His performance in that tournament prompted Wales defence
aspects of the game. In November 2012 after being picked by
coach Shaun Edwards to make a prophetic prediction about the
French national coach Philippe Saint-André to join the senior
young centre “I’ve seen the future and it runs, tackles, scores
squad, embittered Toulon coach Bernard Laporte felt the urge
tries and is called Gaël Fickou.” he wrote in his rugby column
to lambast the young player, questioning his loyalty after he
in The Guardian.
left the club in acrimonious circumstances. What should have
22 | SEEN Sport Magazine
“ I like to work hard, I like to understand what I do on the pitch and I want to improve every day�
been a proud moment for the youngster had clearly reopened
my agent. The only topic was “What would be the best for my
old scars. Incandescent with rage Laporte let his feelings be
career”.
known in no uncertain terms during an interview on the French
That career defining decision to leave his old club has paid
Radio station RMC. He lamented the amateurish way in which
dividends for the nineteen-year old. Although he may not have
former Toulon coach Saint-André had failed to negotiate proper
won any trophies this year and suffered the bitter disappoint-
terms with the young star and stated that he was astounded
ment of losing to his former club Toulon in the semi final of the
that a wonderful prospect or “Nugget” like Fickou was simply
Top 14, he can draw comfort from the fact that his try scoring
allowed to slip away to a rival without a battle to keep him at
exploits for Les Rouge et Noir have earned him a place in the
the club. After his stinging rebuke of Saint-André, Laporte took
national team. His fine try scoring performances against Racing
aim at Fickou. He launched into a vitriolic tirade, questioning
Metro in the league and that brilliant try-saving tackle against
the young players loyalty, courage and even the legitimacy of
Ospreys Ashley Beck in the Heineken Cup, were glimpses of
the transfer. “He lacked courage at times, especially with me”
magic that only go to reinforce the opinion of many in the game,
he snapped, adding that one “Should not lie in life, (and) must
that this kid is very special. It’s easy to recognise Gaël Fickou’s
be legit”.
undoubted talent, it’s self evident. The hard work, focus and
Unmoved by the criticism levelled at him, Fickou did not give
dedication that he invests into his own development as a player
the comments of the Toulon coach much credence. He was rid-
over the coming years will define whether or not he has the
ing the crest of a wave and looking forward to the future. It was
ability to fulfil his potential. A likeable young man, he appears
not something that he needed to dwell on but the young cen-
to be very well grounded and non-plussed by all the attention.
tre was happy to explain his motives. “It was a difficult choice
Whether he becomes rugby’s next global superstar is not of
to move to Toulouse. I discussed it a lot with my family, with
great importance to him, that’s something that only the public,
24 | SEEN Sport Magazine
sponsors and media can decide.
this season in the Top 14 he has definitely converted many of
In the new age of social media, he is engaging with and attract-
his detractors to take a leap of faith and become believers in
ing a new fan base to the game. Like many of his fans he enjoys
his natural ability.
playing FIFA on his playstation and they can relate to him, he
He is the first to admit that he has a long way to go, it’s only the
clearly has the potential to become a crossover star in France.
beginning of what he hopes will be a long and accomplished
When I ask him about the disparity in wages between top flight
career, but with 3 test matches against the mighty All Blacks
rugby players and today’s soccer players he laughs. Whilst he
coming up this month the teenager from La Seyne-sur-Mer
admits that it’s always nice to receive a little more in your pay
has the opportunity to rise to the occasion against the world
packet, he does not want rugby to lose it’s soul and become
cup winners New Zealand and prove he has what it takes to
just about the money, like football.
become rugby’s future MVP.
There have been many comparisons made between Fickou and former or current rugby stars, but ask the youngster who he his rugby idol is and you will draw a blank. When I rephrase my question - who is your favourite sports star - his face lights up. “Oh Adrian Peterson, il est le meilleur!” If Fickou could emulate anyone’s style and success it would be the Minnesota Vikings running back. Like Peterson he is blessed with blistering pace and a raw athleticism that enables
Clothes supplied by Bec Fin, 28, rue des Marchands, Toulouse. Locations: Crowne Plaza, Grand Hotel, Place du Capitole and Grand Balcon, 8-10 Rue Romiguieres, Toulouse.
him to breach the tightest of defences and wow the spectators. He may not have a swanky nickname like “Purple Jesus”, but
SEEN Sport Magazine | 25
INTERVIEW
GAﾃ記 FICKOU
Gaﾃｫl Fickou races p
past Olly Barkley to score a try for Stade Toulousain against Racing Metro in the Top 14 match at Stade Ernest Wallon, Toulouse, 1/10/12.
Interview & Photos by Eoin Mundow
You spent your formative years at
in la Seyne/mer. My brother Jeremie is
prepared to train with the best players
Toulon. Did you find it frustrating that
still playing there, he plays prop and I’m
of Top 14. Many of them are part of the
you were never given the chance to be
very close to him. When I have a break in
national team. That’s the best motivation
involved in the senior team?
Top 14, I like to be back there, most of my
to ensure you give your best and play the
During my last season in Toulon, I was in
friends live there, even if now I’m living in
best rugby.
Marcoussis with Pole France, so every
Toulouse where I found a “new” family!
Do you feel any pressure on you follow-
week; I had to be in Paris from Monday to
ing the media frenzy proclaiming you as
Thursday. It was difficult in that case to be
What has been the major difference
the next “Rugby Superstar”?
involved because I was not training with
between playing and training with
It’s always good to hear that. But I know
the professional team during the week.
Toulouse as opposed to Toulon?
where I come from, I know where I am
It’s difficult to make comparisons as I
now and I‘m aware of what I need to do
What was life like growing up on the
trained for only two weeks with the pro-
to stay at the highest level. My behaviour
Cote D’Azur?
fessional squad in Toulon last season. It
is still the same: I know I need to work
I spent my life in La Seyne/Mer, just close
was very interesting to work with players
hard and stay focused on rugby. I have
to Toulon in the Sablettes area, where
like Johnny Wilkinson. You want to be
my family, my friends, and my agent who
my family still live. I really enjoyed the
able to play very good rugby and to be
support me and are there to make sure I
benefits of the sea and the sun. It’s great
at their level. Ultimately the main point
stay focused on that. In addition to that I
for a young guy to spend good times
with Toulouse is that every day you must
also have Guy Noves and Jean-Baptiste
with friends and family. I started rugby
concentrate, you must be fit and be fully
Elissalde, always reminding me that I must
28 | SEEN Sport Magazine
“I know where I come from, I know where I am now and I‘m aware of what I need to do to stay at the highest level.”
from Toulon. Did you pay much atten-
of rugby, I have found lots of people who
tion to his comments? It was a difficult
welcome me warmly. When I arrived in
choice to move to Toulouse. I discussed
Toulouse, I was looked after well and in
it a lot with my family, with my agent. The
good hands with Vincent and Yannick
only topic was “What would be the best
Nyanga.
for my career”. But at the end of the day, I’m the only one who took the decision.
You are a talented athlete, what made
And I have no regret, I found a very good
you choose Rugby over soccer or any
club, I have been called by Philippe Saint
other sport you excelled at?
Andre a first time in October and played
I started sport with soccer. But a lot
my first cap vs. Scotland. Life is a question
of my friends played rugby. I followed
of choice. I chose to leave my family, my
them one day and found this sport very
work and work. The road is long. I have
friends, my “place” for Toulouse. It was
interesting.
not played more than 9 months in Top14.
not easy. Regarding Bernard Laporte,
A career is long and when I see players
I’m the only one, with my family and my
The wages in football are crazy; do you
like Vincent Clerc, Yannick Jauzion, that
agent to know what happened. I have an
ever think you will see a day where
reminds me that I need to continue work-
easy conscience about that. I did things
young players such as will draw the
ing hard.
properly and some people from the club
same earning power?
called me to tell me they understood my
The wages are really big in soccer. Even if
Who helps keep you grounded and
choice. It is now past for me, I’m focused
wages are lower in Rugby, we are spoiled
focused?
on Toulouse and I’m happy here.
people. We are paid to do what we lov and
My coaches, my family, my brother. But
the pay is not too bad! Rugby is only big
honestly, I like to work hard, I like to con-
What do you feel you have learned since
in France, the UK, Ireland, South Africa,
tinue to learn on the pitch and I want to
joining Toulouse?
Australia, New Zealand and Argentina.
improve every day. I’m sure that if I keep
Conditioning, high standards in all
Soccer is everywhere in the World. That’s
high standards in my day-to-day training,
aspects of my rugby: nutrition, physio, the
also why I know I need to stay humble.
there is no reason why I won’t succeed.
club give us all the tools to be focused on
But humility is important. I also know that
rugby. We know the story of the club. The
What did you think of David Beckham
everything can change tomorrow. I try to
ambition is to play the 2 competitions and
joining PSG?
stay positive. In Toulouse, there is a long
to win something every year. It means that
He is a great player and it was good for
tradition of International players. I have
you don’t want to make club principals
French Ligue 1 to have a star like him.
really done nothing so far. Let’s see what
disappointed. This club breaths rugby, it’s
Stadiums are full, everybody wanted to
happens at the end of the season.
steeped in history, with all their capped
see him play with PSG. That’s funny.
players. It is my duty to give everything Have you been in any weird situations
to them. You learn also that wherever
You were picked for the French six
since your newfound fame? Do you find
you play, the teams want “to beat Stade
nations squad but missed most of the
it strange being recognised?
Toulousain”, which means you cannot be
tournament through injury. Do you think
Of course, people recognise me more
weak when you are on the pitch. That’s
you could have made a big difference?
easily now, especially because Toulouse
very exciting.
It is always frustrating not to be eligible
is a rugby city. But people are really nice
to play because of an injury. Not only one
and kind. And I like to give people some
Who has influenced you most at
player can change this situation, I would
of my time, that’s something normal for
Toulouse since you joined?
have tried to give everything. Bastareaud,
me.
On the pitch Vincent (Clerc), Luke
and Fritz played well. If Florian did not
Bernard Laporte questioned your loyalty
(McAlister), Yannick (Nyanga) and
have this injury, I would not have been
an integrity following your departure
Florian(Fritz) as they play centre. Outside
called.Once you taste life in the national
SEEN Sport Magazine | 29
Manu Tuilagi of Leicester is tackled by Gaël Fickou during the Heineken Cup match between Stade Toulouse and Leicester Tigers at Stade Municipal in Toulouse, France, 14/10/12.
team you want to be back.
at this level. “Work, work and work” was
What is the morale like in the squad?
the promise of Guy Noves when I first met
Really good atmosphere, the players were
In the final game against Scotland you
him: “I promise you 3 things: work, work
dissappointed not to have won more than
were chosen to represent France. What
and work”.
one game. We must build on that experi-
was the feeling like lining up for the
ence and we must come through !
national anthem and being involved
Do you feel the demise of the French
albeit briefly playing out the final
team has been greatly exaggerated?
I understand a few of the players box
moments of the match?
People are passionate. They want us to be
at Stade Toulousain. Is there player in
It was a very emotional moment for me.
perfom well on the pitch. We did not play
particular that you wouldn’t want to get
You think about all the effort you have
our best rugby, but it is a team with new
into a fight with?
made, your family in the stadium, all
players, it is a decisive period for French
Census Johnstone !
these people who were behind you. That
national team. We must integrate new
was a very emotional moment. I was only
players but keep the high standards and
What does the future hold for Gael
the pitch for a short time, but it was very
ambition. We must be patient. We must
Fickou?
intense. It gives you an idea what it takes
stay ambitious, but people must under-
Winning the Brennus and many other
to play at the highest level of rugby and
stand we will do everything to come back
titles I hope.
reminds you how hard it is to go on playing
stronger.
30 | SEEN Sport Magazine
How did you feel losing to your former
used me when they thought the condi-
This time last year did you imagine you
club Toulon in the Semi Final of the Top
tions were right and it helped to develop
would be facing Dan Carter and Richie
14?
my game. I think I started well, the Top 14
McCaw?
Of course I was disappointed, we really
is a physical championship, with a long
This time last year, I just wanted to play
wanted to finish the season better. But
season. As I played more games, I gained
with U20 and was working hard to be
there are no excuses, Toulon were better
more experience especially playing in the
able play some games in the first 23 with
than us. The fact I had to leave the game
Heineken Cup and 1/4 and Semi finals of
Toulouse. We all expect to play one day
early with a back injury was more disap-
the Top 14. It was definitely a very inter-
for the big team. I have to say it came
pointing, But I now I have a big challenge
esting season.
sooner than expected. I’m just happy and enjoying my rugby, doing everything I can
with the national team. I’m here in New Zealand thanks to the club and I want to
How do you think France will compete
give them back what they gave to me.
against the might of the All Blacks?
to stay here now !
It will be tough but we will do everything
If you play do you have anything special
How would you assess your first season
to compete and play good rugby. It is
planned when facing the Haka of the All
in the Top 14?
something special. Against All Blacks, we
Blacks?
I had the chance to start games sooner
never know how it will be and of course
I did not think about that to be honest.
than I thought. Guy Noves and JB Elissalde
they are the world champions.
SEEN Sport Magazine | 31
Gaël Fickou on a lap of honour after his try scoring performance. Stade Toulousain v Racing Metro, Top 14 Quarter Final 2013, The Stadium, Toulouse, France. 10/05/ 13. (Top Left) Gaël Fickou of Toulouse takes on Dimitri Szarsewski of Racing Metro. (Bottom Left) Gaël Fickou of Toulouse stands with his young niece and god daughter as he conducts a post match interview with Canal+.
GaĂŤl Fickou runs out of the players tunnel and onto the pitch before the Top 14 quarter final against Racing Metro 92 at the Stadium, Toulouse, France 10/05/13.
PORTFOLIO
PARIS ST GERMAIN
PSG’s Zlatan Ibrahimovic rises high above Dany Alves and Cesc Fabregas of Barcelona to head the ball towards goal, during the Champions League 1/4 Final second leg match at the Nou Camp, 10/04/13.
T
he rise of Paris Saint Germain back to the summit of French football has been a roller coaster ride of emotions. Having clinched their first Ligue 1 title since 1994 with a 1-0 away victory over Olympique Lyonnais on May 12, Les Parisiens are ready to stake their claim as one of Europe’s biggest clubs.
Thanks to the major investment by the clubs owners, the Qatar Investment Authority, PSG have managed to capture the imagination of the French public and raise the profile of Ligue 1 this season with a mixture of wonderful football, commercial ingenuity and some very public bust ups. Les Rouge-et-Bleu achieved a stunning media coup in January when they secured the services of soccer’s most iconic figures David Beckham. Deemed as a marketing masterstroke, the addition of the former England captain appeared to have a profound impact on the pitch as well as off it. Though his 38-year-old legs could not carry him as quickly as he had hoped, his vision and sheer presence helped transform the morale of a star-studded team who appeared to be losing their way during mid season.
(Left) David Beckham makes his debut for PSG against Marseille. (Bottom) PSG goalkeeper Salvatore Sirigu in a reflective mood.
(Left) Zlatan Ibrahimovic contols the ball during the Ligue 1 match against Toulouse. (Top) PSG Coach, Carlo Ancelotti.
Struggling to break free of rivals Marseille and Lyon at Christmas period, the aristocrats of Boulogne found a new lease of life and started to play with a renewed vigour once Beckham arrived. Zlatan Ibrahimovic moved up another gear scoring more stunning goals and reaffirmed his cult status as the “King of PSG”. Young up and coming stars like Marco Veratti, Javier Pastore, Thiago Motta and French international Blaise Matuidi stepped out of the shadows and began to shine as they competed against Europe’s finest teams in the Champions League. Since winning the title David Beckham announced his retirement and Carlo Ancelotti has expressed his desire to leave and take over as Real Madrid coach. Life at PSG is far from dull. No sooner has the ink dried on rewriting the club’s history, then a new and no doubt more ostentatious chapter begins.
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Thiago Motto takes on Xavi Hernandez of Barca during the Champions League 1/4 final match at the Nou Camp, 10/04/13.
42 | SEEN Sport Magazine
Ezequiel Lavezzi attacks for PSG.
PSG midfielder Javier Pastore takes on Sergio Busquets of Barcelona.
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Zlatan Ibrahimovich of PSG screams out in pain as he is fouled by Andre Ayew of Marseille.
PORTFOLIO
PSG ULTRAS
PSG fans chant in support of their team.
Text & Photos by Eoin Mundow
‘ICI C’EST PARIS’ Money can buy you everything, apart from love and class. With their status assured as a leading light in European football on the pitch, PSG’s president Nasser al-Khelaifi was playing with fire when he decided to choose the famous Trocadero district as the focal point for his team’s title winning celebrations. What was supposed to be a fantastic photo opportunity underneath the iconic Eiffel Tower, quickly descended into a PR disaster as a small group of PSG Ultras ran riot smashing shop windows and intimidating the respectable Paris Saint Germain fans who had come to cheer on their heroes. The ugly scenes that unfolded were a stark reminder that hooliganism is on the rise in French football. The Ultras have long been associated with the far right. They are not however motivated by politics, purely by the hatred for being ostracized by the club’s former president Robin Leproux and the love of violence. Their vociferous and sustained attack against the police and the new owners reflects however the discord between the “cousu d’or” – stinking rich and the disenfranchised population who struggle financially from day to day in France’s capital city. 800 riot police were on hand to try and quell the unrest, but they were easily over run. In the carnage that followed 21 people were arrested, 30 people injured and for a brief moment the eyes of the world were given an enlightening insight into the social problems that blight the country and the disaffection that the Ultras harbor for the new owners. Paris Saint Germain was quick to condemn the actions of the Ultras. In a statement issued by the club they said that the violence had “nothing to do with football and even less with those that fill the Parc des Princes on match days with such passion and enthusiasm and in total security.” They added that PSG are “more determined than ever to build a huge European club, worthy of the French capital, and far removed from those intent on trying to destroy that dream.” Having tried desperately to rebrand and repackage the club, the Qatari Investment Group has clearly underestimated the influence, albeit negative that the Ultras have over the clubs image. The issue of hooliganism within the Parc Des Princes is an ageold problem. The rivalry between the multi cultural “Auteuil” stand and The Boulogne Boys, a large, Italian-style ultra group of white supporters who occupy the Bolougne stand has meant that violence is never far from the surface. Now banned forever from parading their football victories in the centre of Paris, PSG president Nasser al-Khelaifi has had a rude awakening. The clubs new motto is “Dream Bigger”, it’s a wonderful corporate slogan, but not one that resonates with everyone who supports the club. The battle for the hearts and minds of the Parisian fans my have been won following the team’s on field endeavors, but there is a long way to go before the club can find a solution to the rise in violence perpetrated by the Ultras and become a united PSG.
FACTFILE In November 2006, Julien Quemener, a member of the ‘Boulogne Boys’ (a group associated with the KOB), was shot dead following a UEFA Cup match between Paris Saint-Germain and Hapoel Tel Aviv. On 28 February, Yann Lorence, a 38-year old Paris Saint-Germain fan is left in a lifethreatening coma as trouble flares between rival factions of hooligans from the club during the El Clasico in Marseille. He died a month later as a result of the serious head injuries he had received during the frenzied attack.
Disbanding the Ultras On 30 April 2010 French Prime Minister François Fillon and Interior Minister Brice Hortefeux signed an official decree disbanding five PSG ultras supporters groups from the Tribune d’Auteuil, the groups Supras Auteuil 1991, Paris 1970 la Grinta and Les Authentiks were dissolved. At the other end of the pitch, the Kop of Boulogne lost Commando Loubard and Milice Paris.
All PSG In May 2010 PSG President Robin Leproux took the radical decision to set up an anti violence plan and eradicate the scourge of hooliganism from the tribunes of the Parc Des Princes. “All PSG” was formed and the removal of over 13,000 season ticket subscriptionss made big impact stemming the violence within the club.
Text & Photos by Eoin Mundow
PSG fans celebrate winning the Ligue title opposite the Eiffel Tower. 13/05/13. Photo: Presse Sport
FEATURE
AS MONACO
AS Monaco players take a break during training at Le Turbie training ground, Monaco.
Text, Interview & Photos by Eoin Mundow
The ReD Revolution AS Monaco are back in the big time after nearly a decade in the wilderness. Thanks to the massive investment from Russian billionaire Dmitry Rybolovlev, and the knowledge and wisdom of their effervescent head coach Claudio Ranieri, Les Rouge et Blanche are once again a force to be reckoned with after claiming promotion to Ligue 1.
For over a year now I have been follow-
top of the table, but struggling to find the
decades and has seen many Managers
ing the AS Monaco story closely and in
consistency that their coach demanded.
come and go during his tenure. We have
the Autumn of 2012, long before the lav-
been liaising by phone and he has kindly
ish multi-million pound signings of James
As the sun rose over the principality of
offered to give me a lift to the training
Rodriguez, Joao Moutinho and Radamel
Monaco, I looked down at the super
ground.
Falcao, I was offered the unique oppor-
yachts moored in the quayside beneath
and as I wait for him to arrive, I keep an
tunity to venture into the inner sanctum
Monaco train station. I recounted the
eye out for a flashy sports car to pull up.
of AS Monaco’s state of the art training
wonderful tales my father would tell me
However, my delusions of grandeur are
complex at “La Turbie” and document
when I was child. He worked as a deck
instantly dashed when he arrives in a
the re-emergence of the 7 time French
hand for the Guinness family back in the
Peugeot hatchback. As I get in the car
champions’ reversal of fortunes.
swinging sixties. However nearly fifty
we share a joke, I tell him I was expecting
years later the cast of this very cosmo-
him to be driving a Porsche, he quips that
The setting for soccer’s latest success
politan story could not be more different.
it’s a common misconception that every-
story could not be more idyllic. Home
Back then Monte Carlo was frequented
one who lives or works in Monaco is a
to the rich and famous, the principality
by the glitterati, former first lady Jackie
millionaire. PJ as he likes to be known, is
of Monaco is a tax haven that shelters
Onassis, the dashing, quintessential
very candid about the clubs successes
the affluent. It has long been the destina-
dandy David Niven and rock and roll
and failures in the past. He is a jolly soul,
tion of choice for mega-rich sports stars
bad boys The Rolling Stones. Today’s
vehemently passionate about the club
who want to benefit from the sun, sea,
socialites are millionaire Footballers and
and admits he is excited by this new
glamour and most importantly profit from
Russian oligarchs.
adventure. Fluent in French, English and
the advantageous tax system. I visited
My chaperone for the day is AS Monaco
Italian he is held in high regard by coach
the club when they were in the throws
press officer Pierre-Joseph Gadeau.
Ranieri. As we head out of Monaco via
of their Ligue 2 campaign and were on
He has worked for the club for over 2
Avenue Prince Rainier III we discuss the
56 | SEEN Sport Magazine
It’s 8am on a chilly morning
(Top) AS Monaco players keep the bench warm. (Bottom) Coach Clauido Ranieri instructs his players during training.
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1. AS Monaco’s stadium. 2. Pierre-Joseph Gadeau 3. Ticket office at Stade Louis II. 4. Ocampos’ football shirt 5. AS Monaco players report for training.
2
1 3
4
5
Just like his ancestors, Claudio Ranieri‘s intention is to transform the club into an impregnable force.
BC and is built around a stunning monu-
a canny habit of getting the best out his
ment called ‘Le Trophée des Alpes’. In
players, irrespective of their skill level.
latter years the monument was turned
His vast experience of working with top
into a fortress, it only seems fitting that
players in Italy, Spain and England has
just like his ancestors Claudio Ranieri‘s
enabled him to understand the mentality
intention is to transform the club into an
of the modern day Footballer. He tells
impregnable force.
me that he loves working with champions and pinpoints Argentinian whizz kid
In keeping with his meticulous nature,
Lucas Ocampos, Eurosport young player
Ranieri has chosen his technical staff
of the year Yannick Ferreira Carrasco
wisely, employing a mixture of French
and French under 21 International Valère
clubs colourful past. AS Monaco is a club
and Italian Coaches to assist him in his
Germain to be the stars of the future. As
steeped in history. They had great suc-
quest to become French footballs top
the training session concludes I spot PJ
cess in the seventies with Lucien Leduc
team. Accredited Sport Psychologist
standing on the sideline. With his umbrella
and then again in the late eighties when a
Phil Johnson is the sole English man on
in hand, he ushers me over frantically and
young Arsène Wenger made his mark on
the team, he acts as a consultant to AS
tells me that now is the best time to catch
the club. However, it’s during the Didier
Monaco and is on hand to mentor and sup-
coach Ranieri if I want to shoot some por-
Deschamps era that he recalls his fondest
port the Manager, players and Assistants
traits of him. The bronzed Italian looks
memory. In 2004 Monaco had an amaz-
in a number of key areas including self-
very regal with his snow white hair and
ing run of form in the Champions League,
belief and self-esteem, skill development
I’m surprised at how fit he looks given
claiming the scalps of Real Madrid and
and goal setting. Ranieri is a very likeable
his advancing years. As he puffs out his
Ranieri’s Chelsea, before losing to Jose
guy. He emanates great enthusiasm and
chest, it’s my turn in the driving seat. It’s a
Mourinho’s side 3-0 in the final.
warmth towards his young squad as he
surreal experience and one that does not
oversees training. They hang onto his
last too long. He is very accommodating,
Our discussion turns to the current era
every word as he bellows instructions at
but I sense he is slightly uncomfortable
as we pass the treacherous hairpin bend
them in English. Well known for being a
being on the receiving end of my ques-
aptly named “Devil’s Curse” that claimed
fierce advocate of the Catenaccio style
tions. After a couple of minutes our brief
the life of Princess Grace of Monaco in
of play of locking the bolt and defend-
shoot is over, we shake hands and Mister
1982. PJ explains that Ranieri or Mister as
ing, he has adopted a slightly different
Ranieri heads off to the changing room.
he is known affectionately to those close
approach at Monaco. Less conservative
to him, has invested a great deal of time
and more fast paced, today’s training
PJ informs me that he has a few press-
integrating the youth players with the
session is all about pressing the oppo-
ing issues to deal with before we can
seniors. It’s something that the sixty-one
nent, in attack and defence and forcing
leave the training ground. As I wait for
year old Roman coach is renowned for
them to make mistakes. He demonstrates
him to finish his duties I chat with a player
since his time at Chelsea. He insists that
that behind the jovial exterior, he is no
who is sitting on the curb in the car park.
all the players eat breakfast together and
shrinking violet. If his players do not fol-
It’s been a memorable and engaging
as we arrive at the training ground that
low his commands, like an authoritative
morning. I tell the young player that I’m
convivial atmosphere is clearly appar-
Headmaster he reinforces the point by
surprised at how accommodating and
ent. The facilities at La Turbie are second
repeating his sentiments in French.
open everyone has been with me today.
to none, nestled between the Alps and
It’s been a refreshing experience com-
the Mediterranean Sea, the complex
Over the course of the session Ranieri
pared with the over officious nature I
was built in a former quarry, the “Ortelli”
is on hand to offer his young players
have experienced at some UK clubs.
quarry and overlooks the glistening
words of encouragement. His man man-
He tells me that there is a good ambi-
Cote D’Azur. The nearby ancient town of
agement skills are impeccable, he is
ence at the club, it’s pretty laid back, he
Turbie was inhabited by the Romans in 7
very approachable and appears to have
then adds that his friend is in the squad
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AS Monaco owner Dimiytri Rybolovlev arrives at Stade Des Costieres, Nimes, France flanked by his bodyguard, ahead of watching his team secure promotion to Ligue 1.
60 | SEEN Sport Magazine
at Manchester United, he has heard that
his Coach’s work. Having studied as a
Sir Alex Ferguson rules with an iron fist.
Cardiologist, before earning his fortune
With that candid revelation, he bids me
in the Potash industry, the philanthropist
farewell, his friend has arrived to give
has placed his trust and faith in the Italian
him a lift back home, weary after such a
Coach to resuscitate the ailing heart of
strenuous work out, he slumps into the
this sleeping giant. The “Red Revolution”
passengers seat of the car. I ask him if
at AS Monaco is just beginning.
he will be here next season, he responds
Ranieri has been handed the largest
matter of factly “who knows what hap-
transfer fund in the game, he is under
pens next in football?”
immense pressure to deliver positive results on the pitch. He understands bet-
As I make my way back down the winding
ter than most that there is no room for
coastal road towards Monte Carlo with
sentiment in the beautiful game, this is his
PJ, I wonder if this will finally be Ranieri’s
last chance to prove his doubters wrong.
moment of glory. Often thought of as
His vision is to be build a team of young
the nearly man or the tinker man, sports
champions who can rekindle the clubs
biggest prizes have often alluded him.
former glories and return AS Monaco to
Patience is undoubtedly a virtue, however
their rightful place amongst Europe’s elite
the fickle world of football is a commodity
soccer clubs. Then and only then can
that cannot be bought. The clubs owner
Mister Ranieri stroll off into the sunset a
Dmitry Rybolovlev is happy so far with
proud man walking.
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Emmanuel Riviere (c) and team mates celebrate after clinching promotion to Ligue 1 for AS Monaco after they beat Nimes 1-0 at Stade Des Costieres, Nimes, France on 21/05/13. Photo: Sebastien Boue/Presse Sports
AS MONACO FACTS OWNERSHIP In December 2011 Russian billionaire Dmitry Rybolovlev acquired a 66.67% share in AS Monaco through his Monaco Sport Invest (MSI) company. The remaining 33% is owned by Association Sportive de Monaco Football Club, which represents the interests of the Principality of Monaco. TAX BREAKS Under an agreement signed in 1869, Monaco can sign a foreign player without him having to pay income tax and French players who play for club benefit from a massive reduction in their national insurance contributions, paying 20% than their counterparts at other Ligue 1 teams. LEGAL BATTLE WITH THE LFP French Football League have ruled that all its clubs should be subject to the same financial regulations, giving Monaco until June 1, 2014 to set up financial residence in France or face being excluded from all LFP competitions . Dmitry Rybolovlev is not backing down and the legal battle looks set to rumble on for a long time. AS Monaco vice-president Jean-Louis Campora and Prince of Albert of Monaco have been vocal in trying to reach a reasonable agreement with the LFP, but to no avail. TRANSFER MARKET Under the controversial third-party ownership scheme, Super-Agent Pini Zahavi made at least €11 million from the transfers of João Moutinho and James Rodríguez to Monaco. Also getting on in the act are former Chelsea chief executive Peter Kenyon and Portuguese agent Jorge Mendes who also benefited massively following the €60 million sale of Colombian Radamel under a similar third party scheme.
INTERVIEW
CLAUDIO RANIERI
36 | SEEN Sport Magazine
Text, Interview & Photos by Eoin Mundow
M
ister ONACO
Claudio Ranieri is renowned as one of Europe’s top coaches. In the eyes of many football fans he is regarded as the nearly man. Too much of a nice guy to make a lasting impact and not cut throat enough to succeed at the highest level, the easy going Roman has yet to receive the accolades that his commitment deserves. After a tumultuous journey throughout the top leagues in Europe, the wily coach known affectionately as MISTER is back in the big time with AS Monaco. Having led them to promotion this season, he plans to change the Status Quo in French football. With the financial backing of Russian Billionaire Dmitry Rybolovlev and the advantage of being exempt from tax in these trying times of austerity, the sleeping giants from the Pricipality are on course to become the new leaders of the pack.
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What is the vision for your new project at AS Monaco? The chairman wants to build a good team, the first step was to win the championship in Ligue 2 and then improve and improve to find champions, but young champions to gain promotion to Ligue 1 to be able fight with the biggest. Your vision is to be the biggest team in France? Yes (Laughs), Well the biggest team, I don’t know? It’s important that there more big teams in France; it’s good for the championship. My chairman is very ambitious, it’s a very good story and I was very proud to come here to know another country in my career. That is what I thought when Monaco spoke with me initially. When you came did you have to make many changes to the set-up? You brought your own team with you? Yes of course, every time, every country I bring my team with me, it’s important because they know me very well. It’s a mixture of French and Italian coaching staff? Yes. The first thing is to improve the players, to build a good team, a good squad. We do this everyday, day by day. Yo u h a v e a h i s t o r y o f g i v i n g y o u n g p l a y e r s a n opportunity. Is your ethos to look to youth first rather than signing the superstars? Yes, but look I coached the megastars, I used to do everything, but I believe in this project at Monaco, I believe in this chairman and we try to do our best. Do you believe luck plays a major factor in being a successful manager? Yes, for sure without luck you can’t do anything. You can
There is a lot of talk of the young Argentine player Lucas
build a great team and everything else, but a little luck is very
Ocampos (dubbed the new Cristiano Ronaldo who Monaco
important.
signed for 18 Million Euros in the summer). What are your thoughts on him for the future?
As you progress in age, is there a change in the attitude of
He is a champion. Now he has to improve, to develop his char-
young players of today, are they more difficult to coach?
acter, his personality and physical ability – everything. We hope
No. No. No. The young players are not difficult to coach, they
to have bought a very good champion, but time will tell if we
want to improve and they want to understand very well. There
are wrong or right.
is a very good relationship between the young players; the experienced players and they know thatI have to choose the
Was it encouraging last season that Montpellier managed to
first eleven. For the coach it is important to have a lot of players
win Ligue 1 on a small budget? They proved with young play-
because he needs everybody.
ers, great performances and a good coach it’s possible to win
68 | SEEN Sport Magazine
the Ligue against the Galacticos?
you managed there, do you feel that there wasn’t there much
If you want to win something it’s important to have champions.
patience for you to succeed there?
Also when you buy champions it’s not written in every paper or
Yes I had John Terry, Frank Lampard, Wayne Bridge, Glenn
guaranteed that you will win everything. You have to be com-
Johnson, Scott Parker; I can’t remember all the names. No, I
petitive and want to win. It’s like Monaco in Ligue 2; all the
had a good relationship with Ken Bates and then Abramovich.
teams want to beat us that are normal. Everyone when they
There was a very good link, I understand that they wanted to
play against Monaco gives 100 percent, so every match we
change, that is football. The Premier League and La Liga are the
must do the same. It’s good country, a good place (Monaco), we
biggest leagues in the world.
have the sun, good food, the women, everything. The players must make sure they concentrate.
French football appears to be going through a renaissance; do you think it could rival those leagues in in years to come?
You brought a lot young players through at Chelsea when
I think with the owners of Paris Saint Germain and some other
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“The young people are good but sometimes you don’t have the time to give to the young players to improve, because the president or chairman always asks you for the result, the result, and the result.”
owner’s French football can increase (in popularity). Because
experience in Spain, Italy, England and France. Where do you
in this moment there is Spanish, England and Germany, Italy is
think the youth system is most beneficial?
too frightened, because we need money. Without money it is
I don’t, I don’t know.
difficult, but it’s important for a new generation in Italy, no. The Italian people are always competitive, but with more money we
Does it depend on the club?
could buy more champions and with more champions it’s easier
It depends on the club of course because if you are in a big
to succeed, without this is very difficult.
team it is difficult, Just like Barcelona with this Cantera. It’s just difficult for the other teams to put a young player in the team
What is your ethos as a coach? They way you like your teams
because you have to win. The young people are good but
to play football?
sometimes you don’t have the time to give to the young players
I have experience in Italy, Spain, and England and now I have a
to improve, because the president or chairman always asks you
chance to improve my experience in France. I want my players
for the result, the result, and the result.
to be active when they have the ball and when they lose the ball. You have to be very good in both situations. That is my
How does it feel to have gained promotion from Ligue 2?
football. I want to win, I want to attack, but I want to respect the
This promotion is a great achievement, It was the goal of the
other teams because they have some good players and we
club, the president and myself,. We put this idea in the minds of
need to put them under pressure.
players who have managed to implement it on the field.Monaco
Do you look at potential rivals for next year such as Marseille
is a great club in Europe and also there is a very good pro-
or PSG?
gramme for the future. I was happy because I love to bring, to
No. Step by step that is my philosophy.
build the team and to build slowly, slowly, and to arrive at the high level. To arrive in the Champions League you have to build
My nephew is fourteen years old; he has played for both
a very strong team. At the moment I don’t know if the chairman
Southampton and Chelsea. It’s very difficult for home
wants to build slowly, the big team, because we have some very
grown British talent to break through in England. You have
good young players. We may want to develop these players.
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INTERVIEW
EMIR BAJRAMI
Text, Interview & Photos by Eoin Mundow
Emir Bajrami, like ma
Monaco gain promot a lucrative long term
The versatile midfield
ers, fellow countryma
understands the disp revolution under the
You have had a succes
of ambition what is the This season we didn’t
of young players that w
in Ligue 2 in France tha
together and work hard
been a couple of times
other team gets comfo
playing our game and win 4-3.
You have played und
career. How would you
During two years in H
coaches and one of the
EMIR
BAJRAMI
Manager). Ranieri he is
asks you how you are d He is very, tactical and
understand. He seems
You have played with
national team. He is n
Saint Germain, what a
You said he was a mas
was a God in Italy. Wha Juventus and won the
the league, he went to
know what to say abo
everything he has don
74 | SEEN Sport Magazine
any of Monaco's squad players is on the verge of breaking through into the big time. Having helped AS
tion to into Ligue 1, he will be hoping he is rewarded for his hard work and secures a here can be no better contract with AS Monaco.
der is currently on loan to Monaco from FC Twente and has played alongside one of football's top play-
an Zlatan Ibrahimovic. Having learned his under the guidance of the best coaches in European soccer. He
parity between success and failure and gives us his unique insight into life on the Cote D'Azur and the new tutelage of Claudio Ranieri.
ssful season, it’s a young team with a lot
speak about this guy because he is an unbelievably good
e ambience like between the players?
player. Sure of course when people see him on television they
ave any really big stars, we are a group
see a star, but when you train with him and see the things he
work really hard for one another. I think
does you are even more impressed.
at is the most important thing. We come
d for ninety minutes because there have
Your dream with Monaco is to be promoted into Ligue 1;
s when we were losing 2-0, 3-0 and the
do you think if you make it you can compete with the big
ortable, but we don’t give up we keep
teams?
d we have managed to comeback and
Monaco is growing; they had a couple of bad years if you can call it that. There were not professional people around the club. We are restarting everything; new players, new president, new
der several coaches throughout your
coach, new staff and I think it is very important to be patient
u assess Claudio Ranieri as a coach?
because not everything can come together like this (snaps his
Holland I played under three different
fingers). If you buy sixty new players you cannot expect them
em was Steve McClaren (Former England
all of sudden to play together, you have to be patient.
good coach, he is good with people and
At the moment and I think everyone at the club agrees that
doing? How you feel?
we are getting the results but the play is not there. We are not
I think that is what he wants us to get, to
playing to a level to which we can achieve. At the end of the
s to have a lot of qualities.
day the result is important, but in time we will get there.
h Zlatan Ibrahimovic in the Swedish
Do you think this new Monaco team can create a new fan
now a massive star in France with Paris
base? It’s a strange place Monaco, so affluent, yet nearby
are your thoughts on him?
neighbours Nice attract so many fanatical supporters. Do
ssive star here in France, but I think he
think in time this will change?
at he did in Italy is amazing. He went to
It doesn’t matter where you go in the world everyone says’
league, he went to Inter Milan and won
Monaco, Champions League Final!”
o AC Milan and won the league. I don’t
Everybody knows they have been there. Monaco is not, but
out this player, every prize he won and
should be a big, club in France and I think with good results you
ne in his career speaks for itself. I can’t
get new fans, that’s how it works in football. (Laughs)
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FEATURE
SERGEY KOVALEV
Text & Photos by Eoin Mundow
rigmoral of intense training, spending long periods of time away from your family and the frustration of corrupt politics within the sport can all have a demoralising effect. In order to succeed a fighter must possess unwavering focus, mental fortitude and belief in his own abilities. The power of mind over matter is more often than not the determining factor between success and failure. No one knows this better than Sergey Kovalev.
Tragedy In The Ring In the spring of 2011, I met Kovalev purely by chance at Abel
HARD ROAD
to GLORY
Sanchez’s gym, high up in the mountains of Big Bear, California. He was at a crossroads in his life; his last bout had ended tragically when his opponent Roman Simokov died following a brutal one-sided beating. As he trained frenetically for his comeback bout with Lionell Thompson, it was self evident that he desperately wanted to move forward with his career, to get back in the ring and overcome the harrowing ghosts of his previous encounter. The ill-fated WBC Asian Boxing Council bout in Yekaterinburg looked like a good match up on paper, but it soon became apparent that Kovalev was too good, too strong and far quicker
There is an old adage in the fight game about letting your fists do
than his opponent. The power puncher from the Ural Mountains
the talking. In the case of light heavyweight contender Sergey
was clinical, relentless and did what he was expected to do as
Kovalev it’s an apt synopsis. Born in Chelyabinsk, Russia, the
he pummelled Simakov over 7 brutal rounds. The thudding
power punching 29-year old is starting to make a big impact
blows and high volume of power shots connected by Kovalev
on the global boxing scene. A reserved man, he is an accom-
throughout the bout had caused irreversible damage. Simakov’s
plished amateur and has methodically worked his way up the
inanimate body slumped to the canvas after an innocuous loop-
light heavyweight ranks, knocking out eighteen of his twenty-
ing right hook caught his right early in the seventh round. As
one opponents and remains undefeated.
Kovalev rightly celebrated another famous victory, the gravity
In his last outing he blitzed the normally durable former world
of his opponent’s situation worsened.
champion Gabriel Campillo in three one-sided rounds and sent
Simakov’s corner man and the ringside physicians hastily lifted
out a stark warning to the current light heavyweight champions,
the fallen fighters body onto a makeshift orange stretcher and
Nathan Cleverly, Bernard Hopkins, Chad Dawson and Beibut
rushed him out of the ring. The crowd applauded as he made
Shumenov - he is coming to take their titles!
his final journey out of the arena and straight into an emergency ambulance. The soft-spoken man from Kemerovo never
His road to glory has not been easy. It’s a journey that has been
gained consciousness again, dying a few days later despite
tainted with a rich tapestry of tragedy, personal sacrifice and
surgeons desperately trying to save his life. It should have been
triumph over insurmountable odds. Having persevered where
just another routine victory, just another opponents name on
many weaker men would have faltered, he has quickly become
his record. However as the tragedy unfolded before his eyes, it
the most avoided fighter in boxing, following a string of brutal
was clear that the name Roman Simakov would become perma-
knockout victories. An unforgiving and a lonely place at the best
nently etched in the mind, body and soul of Sergey Kovalev.
of times, the fight game is renowned for being by far the hard-
His adversary’s downfall serves as a stark reminder to him of
est of sporting professions for good reason. The solitude and
the personal sacrifice and danger one takes when stepping
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Kovalev works out at Abel Sanchez’ Summit Gym in Big Bear, California.
into the squared circle. Over the past 2 years Kovalev has inevitably had to do a lot of soul searching. Coming to terms with the guilt that followed must have been a great burden. Having acted with dignity throughout the ordeal, it was clear to see the deep-hearted compassion that Kovalev had for his former foe. In an open letter on his personal blog, the world title contender expressed his remorse. “Certainly I was very glad to get the win, but I was unaware of Roman’s condition. I thought at the time he had finally made the right decision not to continue this fight for his own good. When I came to his dressing room he wasn’t there, he was in the hospital already. He was a fighter and a man, my he rest in peace”. He added, “If I ever step in the ring again, I will dedicate my next fight to Roman. All my earnings will be sent to his family. Forgive me Roman. Rest in Peace Warrior.”
The Long Road Back Many fighters have wilted after such a life changing and devastating experience, never to return the same. British fighters Nigel Benn and Chris Eubank could not retain that killer instinct after they beat Gerald McClellan and Michael Watson in tragic circumstances. Having to see their opponents in such a horrific physical state in the years that preceded their bouts only prolonged the agony. It served as a constant reminder of their fateful encounter. The finality of Simakov dying meant that there was nothing that Kovalev could do to change the situation. Unlike Benn and Eubank, he had yet to achieve his goal of win-
door open with great force.
ning a world title. His conscience was clear. What happened
Breathing heavily, he walked towards me and removed his
was an accident. Every fighter is aware of the risk of serious
headphones and jacket. The echoes of house music reverber-
injury before they lace up their gloves, there was no need for
ated at a rapid 160bpm from his ipod; he casually nodded and
him to feel accountable for tragic outcome of their bout.
then said “Hello.” His mind was clearly elsewhere, lost in the moment, he continued apace. Pounding away on the heavy
As I waited in the warmth of the gym, a treacherous blizzard
bag in earnest, he dented the worn leather on the bag, the
raged outside. I peered out the window; the pine forest and
chain supports jolted and creaked under every vicious blow.
rugged terrain of Big Bear made for a spectacular site normally.
Having boxed for many years myself and covered the sport
However in this extreme whether there was zero visibility. All I
for well over a decade I couldn’t recall a Boxer punching with
could make out was the silhouette of a man sprinting through
such venom. Upon impact there was a shrill thud that reverber-
the unrelenting snowfall and shadow boxing furiously. He
ated around the gym as if the punch bag had been hit with a
raced into the car park and edged closer to the entrance of
jackhammer.
the gym. He looked menacing as he approached, his brow was
After he had worked out we chatted about his possible foes,
furrowed, steam billowed from mouth and nose as his lungs
there was no mention of his previous bout, just chitchat about
pumped like piston engines, releasing oxygen from his weary
his travels and I suggested that maybe he could come to
body. He grasped the door handle tightly and pulled the gym
England and fight WBO light heavyweight champion Nathan
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‘By the time Kovalev stepped in the ring that night he was a raging inferno of aggression’ By the time Kovalev stepped in the ring that night he was a raging inferno of aggression. It was his first fight since beating Roman Simakov and the comments of Thompson only added fuel to the fire. I felt somewhat sorry for Thompson when I read his comments. From what I had witnessed in the gym Kovalev was anything but basic. He possessed brutal power like many Russian fighters, but under the tutelage of Derek Santos and former light middleweight and middleweight champion John David Jackson, there was slickness and deceptive cunning that was not immediately apparent to the neutral observer. Sure enough Thompson would feel the wrath of Kovalev’s power soon enough. Pole axed by a thunderous right hand at the end of round two, he suffered two more brutal knockdowns before the fight was waved off at the beginning of round 3 by referee Gary Rosato. In front of a national TV audience on NBC sports, Kovalev had managed to vanquish the trauma of his previous bout. He made a big statement and definitely won himself some new fans, including the seal of approval from hall of fame trainer Freddie Roach following such an explosive perCleverly. He smiled and said “Yes, I’d like that”.
formance. Roach was resolute in his praise for Kovalev after
As I packed up my cameras and headed for the door I looked
the bout. “He is a very seasoned fighter. He is close to getting
over once more to bid him farewell. He nodded and greeted
a title fight pretty soon.”
me good day. Then he continued to stalk around the gym, priming himself for battle and punching holes through an imaginary
Building on his success he rapidly added a very impressive
foe as he shadow boxed with ferocious intensity. I felt sorry for
scalp to his resume when he destroyed the normally dura-
his next victim. His merciless approach to training was an eye
ble former world champion Gabriel Campillo in 3 rounds. His
opener. He reminded me in many ways to Marvin Hagler, purely
stalking, attrition style of boxing is designed to break the
in his demeanour. There was no messing with this fighter. As
other man’s will. Throwing a rapid succession of hard loop-
the ‘Marvellous’ one would say Kovalev was “On a seek and
ing punches, frequently and from a variety of angles he simply
destroy mission!”
battered Campillo into submission. Boxing scribes around the
Lionell Thompson was the chosen one, a decent fighter who
world were starting to take notice of Kovalev, but his peers
had sparred with Bernard Hopkins and Chad Dawson. The bout
simply turned the other cheek. After the Russian knockout artist
was due to take place at the Sands Casino Resort in Buffalo,
was happy to throw down the gauntlet and issue a challenge.
New York on the 21st September 2012. Thompson had stoked
“I would want the winner of the Cloud-Hopkins fight on March
the fire by audaciously claiming that Kovalev was in for a “Rude
9. I would fight anyone, but whether Cloud or Hopkins will fight
awakening”. He added that “he (Kovalev) was basic”.
me, I don’t know. In boxing today, a lot of fighters are very
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protected. I think I have all of the tools to beat them. It depends
glamour of Las Vegas. Standing in the opposite corner will be
whether or not they accept it.”
the little known Cornelius “The Beast” White of Houston (21-1, 16 KO’s). Ranked number 5 in the world by the IBF, the thiry-one
The Future
year old is a big puncher, but slow paced. Having suffered a
Bernard Hopkins would continue to defy the odds and age.
first round knockout whilst he was a super middleweight to the
At forty-eight years of age he defeated IBF titleholder Tavoris
unheralded Don George in 2011, he has managed to rebuild his
Cloud at the Barclays Center and yet again became the old-
confidence with 5 consecutive victories over average competi-
est man to win a world title. One name missing from the list
tion. His inability to take a solid shot does not bode well for his
of future opponents was Kovalev. Following his victory over
chances against the punching might of Kovalev. With the added
Jones, his promoter, Main Events have desperately been trying
incentive of becoming the mandatory challenger to IBF light
to secure him a title shot or a fight against a leading contender.
heavyweight champion Bernard “The Executioner” Hopkins,
Like Hopkins, none of the 3 other titleholders have been that receptive to challenging the fighter nicknamed “Krusher”. The Jones fight had earned him rave reviews. Much like his compatriot Gennady Golovkin, Kovalev is starting build a huge fan base. In the age of social media and with the help of his devastating knockout performances being accessible to millions of boxing fans around the world, the demand to see Kovalev fight for the world title is growing. In February his focus shifted away from boxing and to his family and friends back in Chelyabinsk. Amidst a blaze of media coverage he watched in disbelief as a 10,000-ton iron and stone meteorite lit up the sky over the Ural Mountains and struck his hometown injuring over 1200 people. The mild mannered fighter was obviously worried for his family’s safety and thankful when he received the long awaited news that they were all ok. Despite his joy he could not help but express his concern for his fellow inhabitants that had been injured. “I was shocked to find out what happened in my home town Chelyabinsk,” Kovalev said. “The news shook not just Russia, but the whole world. I contacted my family and friends as soon I heard about it. Everyone was ok, just scared because they did not know what happened. I am thankful no one was killed. I thank God my family and friends were safe. I am very sorry for the people in my hometown who were injured and suffered distress from this natural disaster. I am grateful to all of the people who have contacted me and my promoters to express their concern.” Now back in training, the good news for the ever-growing fan base of Sergey Kovalev he will return to the ring on the 14th of June. He will travel into the wilderness of the Sands Casino in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, far away from the bright lights and
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both fighters will be in peak condition, but in my view Kovalev
Having managed to rebound from the depths of despair, the
will be too strong, experienced and possess too much intensity
mild mannered fighter has overcome every obstacle that has
for his opponent.
stood in his way. It’s a testament to his steely will and unwaver-
Kovalev will no doubt throw down the gauntlet to the ageing
ing dedication that he has managed to summon the strength to
Hopkins again if he wins on June 14th, whether or not ‘The
overcome such an arduous couple of years. What greater com-
Executioner’ takes the bait or simply gives up his belt remains
pliment could there be to his fallen compatriot Roman Simakov,
to be seen. Irrespective of this, Main Events CEO Kathy Duva
but to achieve the dream that they both strived for when they
cannot hide her joy at her fighter’s meteoric rise. “When Sergey
entered the ring that fateful night in Yekaterinburg.
is in the ring, he is simply electrifying…we look forward to see-
On June 14th Kovalev will be one step closer to accomplishing
ing more fireworks from Kovalev, who will undoubtedly become
his ambition. It’s been a long hard road to glory, but destiny
a force in one of boxing’s hottest divisions.”
awaits the knockout king from the Ural Mountains.
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1
2
1. Kovalev v Campillo. Mohegan Sun Arena, 20th January 2013. 2. Kovalev celebrates after beating Campillo. 3. IBF light heavyweight champion, Bernard Hopkins. 4. Roman Simakov collapses after being knocked out by Kovalev. (DR)
4
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3
Interview & Photos by Eoin Mundow & Rich Graessle/Main Events
Known simply as Krusher to his fans, leading light heavyweight contender, Sergey Kovalev is happy to take on all comers. A man of few words, he discusses his career to date and his desire to face any world champion brave enough to step in the ring with him in an exclusive interview.
In your last fight you made a big statement by knocking out the
What are your best attributes as a fighter?
normally durable Gabriel Campillo. Do you feel that you are
Concentration and focus on your goal (to overcome the next
now ready to make the transition from contender to world
obstacle in the way) and to reach it at any cost.
champion? I am very happy with my win against Gabriel Campillo and
Which champion do you rate most highly out of the cur-
happy with the hard work my team does for a victory with every
rent champions - Hopkins, Cleverly, Shumenov and Chad
bout. Yes, I am ready to face any of the champions in my weight
Dawson?
class and to put a title belt around my waist, this is why and for
Everyone is dangerous differently, but the most experienced
what I came to USA and why I’m still here.
and dangerous I believe is Hopkins, even at his age.
Your journey to become the leading contender in the light
Nathan Cleverly has had great difficulty securing fights in the
heavyweight division has been a roller coaster ride. How hard
past year, yet your name never popped up. If he manages to
has it been to overcome the tragedy of the Simakov fight and
beat Krasniqi in March is he an opponent you feel confident
did it change your outlook on life?
you could beat?
No comments.
I am not against it.
You choose to base yourself in the USA in pursuit of your
Do you think Bernard Hopkins should retire and give the
dream, has the work in the gyms in the States helped you
younger guys a chance?
develop as a fighter?
I believe if a fighter feels perfect and good at his age and able
Yes, I want to fight for the world title and to become a champion
to fight, he is equal to any fighter who steps in the ring in front of
here in United States and training here in America is helping
him. Hopkins is a very smart and slick fighter and he is capable
me a lot. As well, my promoters know what they are doing and
of retiring any of the current champions.
I have no doubt Main Events will lead me to the title bout.
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SPOTLIGHT
JURGEN TAP
Lewis Hamilton (GBR, Mercedes AMG Petronas F1 Team.
Paul di Resta (GBR, Sahara Force India F1 Team) - F1 Grand Prix China.
Interview by Eoin Mundow. Photos by Jurgen Tap.
SHOOTING FORMULA 1 JURGEN TAP How did you start shooting F1?
What's your motivation before you shoot each race? Is it purely
With F1 I was a bit lucky but also I was taking my chances.
editorial or do you look to shoot something really creative to
Actually the agency who took care of the sponsorship were not
set you apart from your competitors?
sure if I could do the job. I persuaded them to send me to a test
Every Photographer with some dedication thinks he does
in Barcelona for free and it turned out they loved the pictures.
something special. The reality at a F1 race is not very exciting.
Never the less it was a very big struggle to get used to all the
The racetracks are getting less and less accessible, the drivers
different racetracks. It also took a few years ‘till I was accepted
are hardly seen in the paddock and I was for example experi-
in the F1 Photographer’s community.
menting a lot with remote flashes in the garages to get a different look. On track you need to take some risks like going for a 1/8
What are your favourite memories from shooting F1 and
sec for a session even though I might end up with nothing I might
why?
also be rewarded with a great and different shot. All this needs
I love to shoot at tracks like Monaco, Sao Paulo and now Austin,
a lot of experience as you only know after some time in F1 when,
but I have my best memories from shootings I had off the race-
where and what is happening.
track. In 1997 I was with Mika Haekkinen and David Coulthard in a weightlessness flight at a military training camp outside from
How much has F1 changed since you started? Is access and
Moscow. It was an opportunity to get an inside view to something
the ability to work closely with the drivers far difficult now?
very special. It’s like your childhood dreams come true only with
I started in 1997 and the golden times when drivers and Journalists
all the physical stress.
where hanging out at the pools were over for a long time, but
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Mika Haekkinen enjoys time away from racing in a weightlessness flight at a military training camp outside from Moscow.
from ´97 ‘till now everything got more professional, marketing driven and structured. The drivers get PR training and you won’t see any of them sunbathing in the afternoon after a session. I took a shot like that of Michael Schumacher 1997 in Monza. The money involved demands much more discipline and makes the story a bit boring. On track we get more and more of these fenced-in artificial tracks like China, Malaysia or Korea. But for example Austin is one great new track to shoot. All together it is still a lot of fun to find your special place at a track. What equipment do you have in your camera bag to shoot an event? A long lense is essential to shoot on track as the cars are often quite far away. I have a 600/4 and a 400/2.8. Personaly I like the 70-200/2.8 and I probably use it the most. But I use the whole range...8mm-600mm and I need all lenses. There are so many different locations and possibilities. Your favourite images that you have shot? I can’t name one particular image. I have a few I really like. One of Schumi cheering to his mechanics, so happy that I even consider him being emotional. The best driver you have witnessed? I am not the right person to judge drivers for their driving skills but my favourite driver is Kimi. Unfortunately he is not interested in photography nor in any other thing besides racing or action sports but he is true to himself and very authentic. Is it all models, champagne and glamour - the dream job? Or is that just an illusion? The models and the glamour in my mind is an illusion. I have champagne once in a while after a win.
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EDITORIAL
SAMBA SOCCER BACK IN VOGUE
Neymar controls the ball during the friendly match against Italy, Stade Geneve, 21/03/2013.
Samba Soccer back in vogue Text by Ryan Colley. Photos by Eoin Mundow
94 | SEEN Sport Magazine
The Brazil players link arms before the friendly match against England at Wembley Stadium. 06/02/13
No national sport is more synonymous
Blue and Yellow who virtually play the
the greatest in modern times, the South
with one team whose style and man-
game as if kicking a tennis ball about
Americans have many a reason to shout
tra are based purely on entertaining for
on a Copacabana beach. Cue Samba
from the peak of Sugar Loaf Mountain
the masses. At times, such an approach
soccer and the Brazil national team!
right now.
has been to their cost, but football
With the Confederations Cup tournament
No megaphone would be needed should
wouldn’t be the game the world knows
just around the corner and next year’s
Brazil clinch a third straight Confederation
and adores today without the team in
FIFA World Cup promising to be one of
title (and fourth overall). Even though on
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BRAZIL FIXTURES Jun 1 - Brazil v England. Estadio do Maracana. (Friendly) - (2-2) Jun 9 - Brazil v France. Grêmio Arena. (Friendly) Jun 15 - Brazil v Japan. Estádio Nacional Mané Garrincha. Confederations Cup (Group Stage 2013) Jun 19 - Brazil v Mexico. Castelão. Confederations Cup (Group Stage 2013) Jun 22 - Italy v Brazil. Arena Fonte Nova. Confederations Cup (Group Stage 2013) Aug 14 - Switzerland v Brazil. St Jakob Park. (Friendly)
(Top) Luis Felipe Scolari. (Right) Neymar attacks during the international friendly against Russia in London, 25/03/13.
home soil, a triumph here would send
be forgiven for thinking that Brazil are
minute suitors who missed out on signing
a loud and clear message to the rest of
not overly concerned if they don’t claim
Barca’s £50m new boy Neymar. That such
the world’s elite that they mean serious
any silverware on offer this time around,
a move has not been kept quiet is hardly
business.
so long as they are there or thereabouts.
surprising given Europe’s penchant for
Ignoring the strangely below par per-
With a nucleus of new young talent at
flirting with players openly once they set
formance against England at Wembley,
their disposal such as Lucas Moura,
their sets on them. You feel his compa-
‘The Canarinha’ appear to be quietly
Neymar, and Thiago Silva, not to mention
triot Paulinho who scored the equalising
building up to this summer’s tournament
the Chelsea contingent of Ramires, Oscar
goal against England at the Maracana
with some confidence and Luiz Felipe
and David Luiz, the recent performances
would be welcomed with open arms by
Scolari’s men will be looking to use this
against Bolivia (4-0) and Italy (2-2) have
many of Brazil’s other European based
as a springboard towards the big one in
proved the old magic is still there.
players such as Moura, Dani Alves and
June 2014.
This coming tournament will also prove to
others should he decide to cut his ties
Football students the world over could
be the last shop window for any other last
and leave Corinthians.
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Brazilian striker Fred looks set to light up the confederations cup this summer. (Right) A Samba Queen gets ready to party.
The midfield and attack of Brazil need
readily available in the Confederations
reports of ‘Taliban’ internet trolls linked to
little introduction of course, but some
Cup, up against Japan, Italy and Mexico
many of Brazil’s club sides have recently
would argue that apart from Hulk, Rever
in the group stage, on paper, Brazil look
been sending out threatening messages
and Henrique, the current crop of stars
like a shoe in to top the group. If they can
of hate on social media networks which
lack real physical presence and certainly
navigate these apparently ‘safe’ waters
many feel could get out of hand and turn
not enough to scare opponents who pos-
then the only ‘sleeping policeman’ en
to violence at some games if not dealt
sess players of much bigger stature.
route to the final could be dogged neigh-
with swiftly enough.
However, this lack of size didn’t do Spain’s
bours Uruguay and the ‘carousel football’
Come June 30th, those with even a hint
World and European Champions any harm,
dished out by Spain.
of doubt that this current crop of Brazilian
therefore this is a space that should be
FIFA hierarchy will also prey that the host
superstars will be ready for Rio 2014, had
definitely watched very closely between
nation’s ability to put on a show for the
better not lay their wagers on any other
now and the start of the World Cup.
watching world both this and next sum-
team just yet. Prepare to be entertained!
Whilst such relative fodder shouldn’t be
mer will go without a hitch. Especially as
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TRAVEL
MONACO
A birds eye view of the Marina in Monaco, France.
Text & Photos by Eoin Mundow
Monaco is the second smallest country in the world. The Principality has been governed by the Grimaldi family for over seven hundred years. Dressed in the disguise of a monk, François Grimaldi captured the Rock of Monaco on the night of 8 January 1297 with his cousin Rainier I. The Rainer’s have been in permanent residence ever since. In 2005, H.S.H. Prince Albert II took over as the head of state. As patron of AS Monaco he has a vested interest in sport and is delighted that the football club have reemerged as a major force in European football this season. There are wide range of sporting activities available for the Monegasque community
to participate in and watch. The principality is host to some of the most glamourous showpiece events on the sporting social calender including the Monte Carlo Masters Tennis, the F1 Monaco Grand Prix, the Monte-Carlo Beach Volleyball tournament and the Régate hauturière. La Plage du Larvatto is the place to hang out if you want to soak up the sun or if you are interested in experiencing the surreal side of Monaco, then why not hang out and pump some iron next to a Jonny Halliday look-alike at famous Guy Mierczuk Monaco Fitness Center.
A general view of Stade Cap D’ail in Monaco, France.
1
1. Guy Mierczuk Mona
2. A statue of an Olymp
3. A statue of Francesc
4. The rims of a superc
5. AS Monaco memrob
2
aco Fitness Center.
pic swimmer.
co Grimaldi (“The Cunning�).
car parked in Monte Carlo.
bilia adorn the wall of a cafe.
3
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