#Italy #Florence #Fair Play #Menarini Award #Sportsmanship

Fair Play Menarini International Award: 29th Edition Opens

On July 2, 2025, in Florence, Italy, the grand event of the year officially commenced with the 29th edition of the Fair Play Menarini International Award. This prestigious ceremony transcends mere medals and records; it is a platform dedicated to showcasing athletes whose careers reflect invaluable lessons in ethics, loyalty, and respect.

The Fair Play Menarini Award highlights that actions and how one conducts oneself can speak more profoundly than accomplishments. Today, Florence and Fiesole set the stage for a two-day celebration, where the true values of sportsmanship will be honored. The opening event takes place against the stunning backdrop of Piazzale Michelangelo, culminating in a gala dinner welcoming this year’s distinguished recipients. It’s an opportunity to embrace the principles that have inspired the Fair Play Menarini Award since its inception.

Florentine Mayor Sara Funaro expressed her excitement about the event, emphasizing that this year’s edition once again recognizes not just athletic prowess, but also virtues such as commitment, empathy, tenacity, and teamwork. “These are the same values we cultivate daily to build a more aware and respectful society. The Fair Play Menarini Award reminds us that sports are a significant driver for growth and integration,” she stated, reflecting on the impact of sports on community engagement.

The anticipation for the awards ceremony scheduled on July 3 at the Roman Theater of Fiesole builds as the audience prepares to applaud the winners and listen to their inspirational stories — narratives that embody the genuine essence of sports. Participants this year hail from diverse sports backgrounds, unified by their commitment to embodying the values of Fair Play through their actions. Among the honorees, a notable highlight includes Portuguese football legend Luis Figo, a Ballon d'Or winner celebrated for his impact in Barcelona, Real Madrid, and Inter Milan.

On the football stage, the ceremony will feature 'Billy' Costacurta and Demetrio Albertini, recognized for their discipline and integrity as unforgettable members of AC Milan and the Italian national team. The athletics category is represented by Gianmarco Tamberi, the world champion high jumper from Budapest 2023 and Olympic champion in Tokyo 2021, alongside fellow athletes like Andy Diaz, a triple jump specialist, Nadia Battocletti, a silver medalist in the 10,000 meters at the 2024 Paris Games, and the legendary high jumper Blanka Vlasic.

In fencing, attendees can look forward to seeing Arianna Errigo, one of the most decorated foil fencers in history. The judo category will celebrate Alice Bellandi, the newly crowned world champion and Olympic winner in Paris. Basketball player Sasha Vujacic, a two-time NBA champion with the Los Angeles Lakers, is also in the spotlight.

The event recognizes the achievements of the paralympic realm with Rigivan Ganeshamoorthy, a gold medalist in discus throw from the 2024 Paralympic Games. Additionally, the field of sports journalism will honor Guido Meda, a renowned voice in MotoGP, known for his passionate storytelling within the motorcycle world.

The awards ceremony will also showcase three Fair Play Menarini Ambassadors. These sports legends have penned significant chapters in sports history, including Ian Thorpe, a five-time Olympic swimming champion; Giancarlo Antognoni, an icon of Fiorentina football and 1982 World Cup winner; and Fabrizio Donato, who secured a bronze medal in triple jump at the 2012 London Olympics.

Once again, the collaboration with Sky TG24 will enhance the experience, as viewers will be accompanied by Rachele Sangiuliano, Michele Cagiano, and Omar Schillaci, alongside their journalist colleague Federico Buffa, sharing the athletes’ stories of ethics, passion, and extraordinary performances.

“As we approach the 2025 Fair Play Menarini International Award, we aim to continue showcasing the highest values of sports, presenting an aspect of athletics that is not only heartwarming but also a role model for society,” stated Valeria Speroni Cardi and Filippo Paganelli, board members of the Fair Play Menarini Foundation. “This is an opportunity to honor athletes whose fair play gestures have made them role models for others, both in sports and in life.”

Entry to the award ceremony is free and open to the public, subject to registration via TicketOne. Supported by institutional partner Istituto per il Credito Sportivo e Culturale, and initiative partners Sustenium, Frecciarossa, Estra, and Adiacent, the 29th edition promises an engaging experience for all.

Stay updated on the protagonists, relive the most exciting moments, and learn all the news by visiting the official website Fair Play Menarini and following the award's social media channels on Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube.