Fair Play Menarini International Award Kicks Off Its 29th Edition Celebrating Sportsmanship and Ethics

Fair Play Menarini International Award: Celebrating Ethics in Sports

A New Chapter Begins in Florence

On July 2, 2025, Florence, Italy, served as the vibrant backdrop for the kickoff of the 29th edition of the Fair Play Menarini International Award. More than just a trophy, this event is a heartfelt celebration of values that resonate profoundly within the sporting community—commitment, respect, and integrity. Awardees this year include prominent athletes embodying these principles throughout their careers.

Mayor Sara Funaro emphasized the significance of these awards, noting that true greatness in sports goes beyond records and accolades. It's about contributing to a more empathetic and respectful society, a core mission of this annual event. The celebrations spanned over two days, gathering sports fans and local citizens in appreciation of the virtues that athletes inspire through their actions.

A Gala to Remember

The ceremony commenced at the iconic Piazzale Michelangelo, known for its breathtaking views of Florence. It was here that awardees gathered, sharing stories of their journeys and the lessons learned through their dedication to fair play. The atmosphere was charged with excitement as attendees anticipated the narratives that would elevate the essence of sportsmanship.

The highlight of the evening was an address detailing the importance of values in sports. The stories of the winners serve not only to inspire future generations of athletes but also to remind everyone of the impact sports can have on societal growth and inclusion.

Honoring Diverse Talents

Among this year’s celebrated athletes, several luminaries stand out. Luís Figo, the renowned Portuguese footballer and Ballon d'Or winner, graced the event, alongside football stalwarts Billy Costacurta and Demetrio Albertini, both known for their outstanding contributions to Italian football. The world of athletics was well represented as high jump champion Gianmarco Tamberi, and Olympians Andy Diaz and Nadia Battocletti were honored for their extraordinary performances at both the Tokyo and Paris Games.

Fencing star Arianna Errigo and judo champion Alice Bellandi also received accolades for their remarkable achievements. Basketball had its share of glory too, with Sasha Vujacic, a two-time NBA champion, being acknowledged for his contributions to the sport. Additionally, Rigivan Ganeshamoorthy was celebrated for his triumphs in the Paralympics, showcasing the spirit of determination and resilience.

Journalist Guido Meda, known for his passionate storytelling in MotoGP, received honors for his efforts in promoting sports ethics through media.

Ambassadors of Fair Play

Joining the awardees were three Fair Play Menarini Ambassadors—legendary figures whose careers exemplify sportsmanship. Ian Thorpe, a five-time Olympic swimming champion; Giancarlo Antognoni, an icon from Fiorentina's football glory days; and Fabrizio Donato, the 2012 Olympic bronze medalist in triple jump, added prestige to the event.

Their presence served as a powerful reminder of the legacy that athletes can create by embodying fairness and integrity in their respective fields.

Looking Ahead

As the event continued, the excitement built for the upcoming award ceremony set to take place at the Roman Theatre of Fiesole. Attendees looked forward to the inspirational speeches from award winners, reaffirming the essential values in sports—values that resonate beyond the playing field and into society.

Valeria Speroni Cardi and Filippo Paganelli, board members of the Fair Play Menarini Foundation, passionately reiterated their commitment to showcasing the noblest values of sports through this platform. They emphasized the importance of recognizing athletes who serve as role models not only in their sport but in life as well.

Participation and Support

The Fair Play Menarini International Award is free and open to the public, encouraging widespread participation to celebrate the essence of sports. The event this year has gained support from various partners, including Sustenium and Frecciarossa, enhancing the initiative's reach and impact on the community.

The official website and social media channels of the Fair Play Menarini Award will continue to provide updates, highlights, and immersive content surrounding the event, making it accessible to a wider audience.

In summary, the Fair Play Menarini International Award is not just a ceremony; it is a movement committed to celebrating integrity, respect, and the unyielding spirit of athletes worldwide.