Celebrating 30 Years of Fair Play Menarini: Honoring Legends and Young Athletes

The Fair Play Menarini International Award, a prestigious recognition in the world of sports, marked its 30th anniversary with a grand event at the Italian National Olympic Committee (CONI). This celebration not only highlights outstanding athletic achievements but also emphasizes the values of integrity, respect, and loyalty that are crucial both in sports and life. The ceremony gathered notable champions from various sports, reminding us of the impact that athletes can have far beyond the field or track.

Luciano Buonfiglio, president of CONI, expressed pride in the event, stating that celebrating 30 years is a significant milestone that honors champions who have exemplified ethical behavior throughout their careers. The event featured remarkable athletes such as Armand Duplantis, the pole vault world record holder, and Gianfranco Zola, a legendary football talent.

The 2026 edition of the award not only recognized seasoned professionals but also honored three young athletes, conveying a powerful message about the importance of upholding sportsmanship and ethical values. The presence of young awardees signifies the bright future of sports, showcasing how integrity can resonate across generations.

Among the 2026 honorees, Gregorio Paltrinieri stood out as a key figure in swimming, while Achille Polonara represented Italian basketball with grace. Antonella Palmisano, known as the queen of race walking, and Chiara Mazzel, a star in Paralympic skiing, also took the stage, reflecting the diverse nature of athletic excellence.

Notably, the event will be held on July 2 at the Teatro del Maggio Musicale Fiorentino in Florence, where both athletic excellence and celebration of values converge. Audiences can look forward to being inspired by the narratives of each honoree, which emphasize how fair play is not just about winning but about the character displayed during the journey.

As Luca Lastrucci, Valeria Speroni Cardi, and Filippo Paganelli, members of the Fair Play Menarini Foundation Council, articulated, the stories from this year’s honorees remind everyone that respect and sportsmanship hold the power to unite generations. They impart lessons that resonate both within and outside the sports community.

Before the grand celebration, an additional event will take place on June 15 in Florence — the Special Fiamme Gialle Award for