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The 30th Edition of the Fair Play Menarini International Award

Florence has opened its doors to the much-anticipated 30th edition of the Fair Play Menarini International Award, an event dedicated to celebrating not only athletic accomplishments but also the underlying values that define sportsmanship. Today marks the beginning of this prestigious event, which pays tribute to champions who have demonstrated exceptional respect, integrity, and loyalty throughout their careers.

The grand gala dinner takes place at the scenic Piazzale Michelangelo, setting the stage for two days steeped in the core values of sports. The event will culminate with an awards ceremony at the historic Teatro del Maggio Musicale Fiorentino, a testament to the rich cultural heritage of Florence.

Highlighting the winners of 2026, the event features remarkable athletes such as Achille Polonara, emblematic of strength and resilience in Italian basketball; Antonella Palmisano, one of the brightest stars in race walking; and Armand Duplantis, who has redefined the standards of pole vaulting. Their achievements reflect not only physical prowess but also the spirit of camaraderie and fair competition.

Joining them are Bebe Vio and Chiara Mazzel, who serve as powerful examples of determination and inclusion within the Paralympic movement. The event will also honor Daniele Garozzo, an international fencing star; Gregorio Paltrinieri, a true icon in the swimming world; and Simone Anzani, a key figure in volleyball. Additionally, the trio of Davide Ghiotto, Michele Malfatti, and Andrea Giovannini, who successfully reclaimed Italy's Olympic gold medal in team speed skating after a two-decade hiatus, will grace the stage along with renowned sports journalist Fabio Caressa.

Soccer legends also take center stage, with figures who have thrilled fans across Europe including Diego Milito, Emilio Butragueño, and Gianfranco Zola. Together, they represent the pinnacle of sportsmanship and the celebration of athletic excellence that the Fair Play Menarini Award embodies.

This year’s ceremony is poised to be more than just an awards show; it's a reaffirmation of the Fair Play values. “Thirty years ago, a vision was birthed to place sport’s core values at the forefront. Today, those ideals resonate more than ever,” stated members of the Fair Play Menarini Foundation’s board—Luca Lastrucci, Valeria Speroni Cardi, and Filippo Paganelli. They emphasized that throughout the years, they have encountered extraordinary champions and, more importantly, exceptional human beings who embody the essence of fairness and respect within the realm of sports.

The gala will be hosted by Rachele Sangiuliano, Michele Cagiano, and Omar Schillaci, alongside Federico Buffa, who will guide the audience through some of the most compelling stories in sports history. The Fair Play Menarini Award 2026 ceremony will be broadcast live on Sky, channels 501 and 257, making it accessible to a broader audience.

For those wishing to follow the winners and remain updated on the festivities, the official website www.fairplaymenarini.com offers the latest information, alongside active social media channels on Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube. The celebration of sportsmanship continues as the Fair Play Menarini International Award honors those who uphold the highest standards of integrity and respect in the world of athletics.