Rugby is growing in Monaco, thanks to the dedication of the Monaco Impis team and their head coach, Nicolas Bonnet.

Founded in 2017, the Impis have quickly made a name for themselves by bringing together players from around the world to compete at a high level.

Bonnet, who has been with the team from the start, shared how they’re preparing for the upcoming Dubai 7s tournament and building a lasting rugby culture in the principality.

Founded at the wishes of Princess Charlene of Monaco and Gareth Wittstock, current president of Monaco rugby union, the Impis—named after the Zulu word for ‘warriors’—is a project that brings together players from across the globe to compete at an elite level.

“With a country as small as Monaco, which has a population of only 40,000, our talent pool is limited. That’s why we created a team with Monégasque players and international talent,”

This combination, he added, allows local players to learn from top athletes while representing Monaco on the global stage.

’Professional schedule helps them understand what it takes’

Monaco Impis train rigorously for the Dubai 7s, a key event that has become a benchmark in the world of rugby.

This year, they’re bringing three teams: an Under-16 squad, a social team made up of Monégasque players, and an invitational team blending 10 international athletes with two local players. The goal is to improve their local athletes by exposing them to intense international competition, building skill, discipline, and a deeper understanding of the sport.

Training in Dubai before the tournament is an important step in their preparation.

“We train at Safa Park every day, giving our players the same demanding schedule as international professionals,” Bonnet said.

“This exposure to high-level competition and the professional schedule helps them understand what it takes to improve when they return to Monaco.”

Though the team has celebrated several milestones, including a memorable draw against Fiji, Bonnet notes that each tournament presents new challenges. The team’s recent victory in the prestigious Melrose Sevens in Scotland has also been a highlight, reinforcing the strides they’ve made on the field.

“Competing against teams like Samurai, some of the best in the world, and winning was incredible. Each tournament tests us, but we’re motivated by representing Monaco and seeing our young players grow.”

’Experiences that shape the them’

Bonnet is focused on the sport’s growth in Monaco, especially among younger players. The team’s partnership with the Princess Charlene of Monaco Foundation reflects rugby’s values of education, cooperation, and solidarity.

This year, the team’s Under-16 group will have the chance to compete on an international stage, a rare opportunity that Bonnet believes is crucial for their development.

”Whether or not they become professional, these young players are getting experiences that shape them. They’re learning the importance of hard work, dedication, and teamwork—values that go beyond the field.”

For Bonnet and Monaco Impis, each tournament is a step toward building a sustainable rugby presence in Monaco. With plans to participate in other major tournaments, such as those in Amsterdam, the Impis are eager to continue growing their project and inspiring a new generation of players.

’Creating pathways’

As the Impis prepare for Dubai, Bonnet is optimistic about their impact, not only in competition but within Monaco’s budding rugby community. “Our players represent a new chapter in Monaco’s sports culture,” he said.

“It’s about creating pathways, inspiring youth, and putting Monaco on the rugby map.”